Carbohydrates, or carbs, are the sugars, starches, and dietary fiber that occur in certain foods. The body breaks them down into glucose, which provides energy for bodily functions. A carbohydrate, or “carb,” is a macronutrient that provides energy. Macronutrients are special nutrients your body requires in large amounts to function. The other two main macronutrients are fats and proteins. Carbohydrates are found in both healthy and unhealthy foods. Natural foods, minimally ... Carbohydrates are a class of naturally occurring compounds, probably the most abundant and widespread organic substances in nature. They are essential constituents of all living things. Carbohydrates are one of the four main categories of molecules found in living things - the other three being proteins, lipids and nucleic acids. They are vital for life on Earth and perform a range of functions such as providing energy, structural support and cellular communication. A carbohydrate is either a sugar or a polymer of sugars. A polymer is two or more simple sugars joined together. Carbohydrates are carbon based molecules with hydrogen and oxygen bonded to a chain of carbon ...