Composition of carbohydrates

Composition of carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are so called because they contain carbon with hydrogen and oxygen in the same proportion as in water (2:1). The general formula is C_nH_2nO_n

Our body needs energy to grow and repair themselves, keep warm and do physical activity. Energy comes from food and drink, in particular from carbohydrate, protein and fat (collectively known as macronutrients). The amount of each macronutrient in the food will determine its energy content.