There are two kinds of carbohydrates, simple and complex. Simple carbohydrates consist mainly of fruits and sugars. Complex carbohydrates consist of vegetables, grains, and starches.

There is a third type of carbohydrate called refined carbohydrates. Both simple and complex carbohydrates can be refined. Refined carbohydrates are grains, starches, vegetables, and/or fruits that have been altered in some way, i.e., nutrients removed or destroyed, exposed to extreme heat or drying, colors, dyes, chemicals, and/or hydrogenated fats added. This category of carbohydrates provides very little nutritional value to the body – merely acting as“filler.” If abused, refined carbohydrates will lead to mild or severe weight gain, as well as other life threatening illnesses such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and more.