Module 2: Carbohydrates

This module delves into the fascinating world of carbohydrates—exploring their structure, types, and how they influence energy balance and blood sugar regulation. You’ll learn which carbohydrates nourish the body and which can disrupt health.

Why This Module Matters

Understanding carbohydrates is key to sustaining energy and long-term health. This module clarifies how different carbohydrates affect digestion, blood sugar, and overall wellness.

• Learn the difference between simple and complex carbohydrates.
• Understand how blood sugar stability supports metabolic health.
• Explore sugar, gluten, and alternative sweeteners in modern diets.

By the end of Module 2, you’ll understand how carbohydrates impact your body and energy management.

What You’ll Learn

• Carbohydrate Fundamentals
  What carbohydrates are and why they’re essential for balanced nutrition.
• Simple vs Complex Carbohydrates
  How structure affects digestion, absorption, and the release of energy.
• Blood Sugar Regulation
  How insulin, glucagon, and hormones maintain healthy glucose levels.
• Sugars and Gluten
  Understanding natural and refined sugars, and how gluten affects different individuals.

What You’ll Do

• Analyse Carbohydrate Types
  Compare the nutritional impact of simple and complex carbohydrates.
• Evaluate Blood Sugar Patterns
  Examine how various foods influence energy levels and glucose balance.
• Investigate Gluten Sources
  Identify common foods containing gluten and their effects on digestion.
• Assess Sweeteners
  Review the benefits and drawbacks of natural and alternative sugars.

Module Content

This module covers the following topics:

• An Overview of Carbohydrates
• Complex Carbohydrates
• Starch
• Simple Carbohydrates: Fructose, Galactose, Sucrose, Lactose, Maltose
• Blood Sugar
• Insulin & Glucagon
• Glycaemic Index (GI) & Glycaemic Load (GL)
• Types of Sugar
• Alternative Sugars & Natural Sweeteners
• Gluten: What It Is and Foods Containing Gluten
• Sourdough Bread

Module Outcomes

By completing Module 2, you will:

• Understand carbohydrate classifications and functions in nutrition.
• Gain insight into how the body regulates blood sugar levels.
• Assess how sugars and sweeteners influence health and metabolism.
• Recognise the role of gluten in digestion and overall wellness.

Guidance Every Step of the Way

Our expert nutrition tutors provide personalised feedback and support, helping you grasp carbohydrate chemistry and apply this knowledge to healthier eating and practical nutrition strategies.