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Which Description Best Describes A Starch

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Doctors recommend eating plenty of starchy foods as part of a balanced diet to provide energy and fiber, as well as to increase feelings of fullness.

Energy

Starch is the most important energy source for humans. The body digests starch by metabolizing it into glucose, which passes into the bloodstream and circulates the body. Glucose fuels virtually every cell, tissue, and organ in the body. If there is excess glucose, the liver stores it as glycogen.

Glucose is essential for brain function. An adult’s brain is responsible for 20-25% of the body’s glucose consumption.

Learn more about high energy foods here.

Fiber

Dietary fiber is a nondigestible carbohydrate that only exists in plant-based foods. Foods rich in starch, such as corn, beets, potatoes, beans, fruits, and whole grains, are abundant fiber sources. Although the body does not digest fiber, this carb is an essential part of a nutritious diet.

Nutritionists divide fiber into soluble and insoluble forms. Fruits and vegetables are sources of soluble fiber that can absorb water. Soluble fiber feeds the good bacteria in the gut, helps slow digestion, and softens the stool.

Insoluble fiber does not absorb water. Instead, it passes through the digestive system, adding bulk to keep bowel movements regular and prevent constipation. Whole grain foods, nuts, seeds, and leafy green vegetables are good sources of insoluble fiber.

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According to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), most individuals in the United States do not eat enough fiber. Government guidelines suggest that adult females need up to 28 grams (g) of fiber per day while adult males need up to 34 g.

Learn more about high fiber foods here.

Fullness

Eating starchy foods may help increase satiety, which is the feeling of being full, after eating.

Research shows that eating foods rich in resistant starch helps people feel full. These foods may also improve insulin sensitivity and reduce fat storage. In addition, eating fibrous foods rich in resistant starch may help people maintain a moderate weight.

In a small 2018 study, researchers offered participants breakfast and lunch with either 48 g of resistant starch or a placebo. The participants were then allowed to eat as much as they liked at dinner. The researchers found that consuming the resistant starch at breakfast and lunch significantly reduced the participants’ energy intake during this later meal.

Learn more about foods that may improve the feeling of fullness.

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