What type of carbohydrates are known to provide quick energy?

Simple carbohydrates are known to provide quick energy due to their chemical structure, which consists of one or two sugar molecules. This structure allows them to be rapidly absorbed by the body and converted into glucose, providing immediate energy. Foods that are high in simple carbohydrates include sugars found in fruits, honey, and table sugar, as well as processed snacks and sweets.

In contrast, complex carbohydrates, such as those found in whole grains and legumes, take longer to digest and provide a more sustained energy release. Fiber, while an important part of a diet, does not provide energy in the form of calories since it is not fully digestible by the body. Starches, though they are a form of complex carbohydrates, also need to be broken down before they can provide energy, and therefore are not as quick-acting as simple carbohydrates.