Carbohydrates & Dietary Fibre

Carbohydrates are an important source of energy and the main source of fuel for the body. There are three main types of carbohydrates: simple carbohydrates (sugars), complex carbohydrates (starches) and dietary fibre.

Simple Carbohydrates: Sugars offer little nutritional value and lots of calories, refined sources of sugar are best avoided or limited. Refined sugars are found in products such as white sugar, sweets, lollies and chocolate
Complex Carbohydrates: found in cereals and grains and some root vegetables; a healthy diet should contain lots of starch
Dietary Fibre: Is essential to maintain good health as it can prevent many digestive problems and associated diseases

Great sources of carbohydrates & Dietary Fibre

Good vegetarian sources of complex carbohydrates

• Whole grain bread, pasta, cereals, buckwheat, rye and rice
• Beans, peas and lentils
• Most fresh fruit and vegetables especially potatoes and other root vegetables and bananas

Good vegetarian sources of dietary fibre

• Beans, peas & lentils
• Oats
• Dried Fruits
• Whole grains and whole-meal cereals
• Nearly all fruit and vegetables especially berries, carrots and cabbage

Return to the Nutrition page for information on other essential nutrients!!