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Cereal Foods World, Vol. 63, No. 3
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1094/CFW-63-3-0096
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Carbohydrate Quality: Who Gets to Decide?
J. L. Slavin
University of Minnesota, St. Paul, MN, U.S.A.

Abstract

The primary roles of carbohydrates in the diet are to provide energy to all cells in the body and to provide dietary fiber. It is recommended that adults consume 45–65% of their calories from carbohydrates and that young children obtain a higher percentage of their calories from fat. Dietary guidance supports consumption of carbohydrate-rich foods, including whole grains, vegetables, pulses, fruits, and dairy products. Recommendations also exist for dietary fiber intake (14 g/1,000 kcal), with support for limiting added sugars to ≤10% of total calorie intake in the U.S. diet. Carbohydrates are the primary source of energy for most people. To balance their energy needs, sedentary individuals should decrease consumption of high-calorie carbohydrates.




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References

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