What are Carbohydrates?
Carbohydrates, also known as carbs, are one of three main nutrients that provide us energy from our food.
Carbs can be classified as simple or complex.
- Simple carbs give you quick bursts of energy and can be found in foods like maple syrup, honey and table sugar.
- Complex carbs give you a slower, steadier supply of energy and can be found in foods like whole grains, nuts and seeds and a variety of fruits and vegetables.
Carbohydrates, or Carbs, in Avocado - Did You Know?
Carbs provide the body with energy.
1 serving of avocado contains
4g of carbs.
1 serving =
1/3 of a medium avocado (50 grams)
Fiber is a type of carb.
Carbohydrates: Meeting Daily Needs of Carbs
According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, most people should aim for between 45-65% of total calories from carbohydrates. In other words, if you eat 2000 calories per day, you should eat 225 – 325 grams of carbohydrates (900 – 1,300 calories). Also, choose a variety of nutrient-dense foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, legumes and seeds and limit intake of simple carbs which often contribute calories, but very little nutrition.1
What is Fiber?
Dietary fiber is a type of carb that is not easily digested and can be classified into two types: soluble and insoluble.
Soluble fiber slows digestion while insoluble fiber helps to speed the passage of foods through the stomach and intestines.2
Dietary fiber adds bulk to the diet and may help you feel fuller longer and help manage weight.
Most Americans do not eat enough dietary fiber. The average adult needs 28 -34 grams of dietary fiber each day.
Choose fiber-containing foods like:
- Beans and legumes
- Fruits and vegetables, including fresh avocados
- Whole grain breads and cereals
- Nuts and seeds
Avocado Fiber Content - Did You Know? 79% of an avocado’s weight is fiber and water. So, fiber-containing foods like avocados, help provide a feeling of fullness with fewer calories.
