9781422269930

WORDS TO UNDERSTAND

Carbohydrates: Strings of sugar molecules that the body uses for energy. Complex carbohydrates are long strings that take the body longer to break down, so they offer energy and stop hunger over a period of time. Simple carbohydrates are single sugar chains that become quick energy and can increase hunger. Fiber is a carbohydrate that the human body cannot break down into energy. It becomes food for the good bacteria that live in the gut. Oxidative stress: A phenomenon that occurs when unstable atoms or molecules called “free radicals” steal electrons from nearby molecules in an attempt to become stable. This theft leads to instability in the robbed molecules, which may result in cellular damage, cell death, or cell mutations, which can become cancerous or generally lead to bad health. Refined grains: Grains that have had the bran, germ, or endosperm removed and thus have lost much of the nutrition and fiber that otherwise would be found in these seeds. Examples of refined grains and refined grain products include white flour, white cornmeal, corn starch/flour, white rice, white bread, white corn tortillas, white flour tortillas, cookies, cakes, pastries, and most breakfast cereals.

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