Starchy Foods and Carbohydrates
Starchy foods are our main source of carbohydrate and have an important role in providing energy and vital nutrients to the body. Whether it's bread, pasta, rice, or potatoes, these foods offer a sustainable source of energy that our bodies rely on. Learn why starchy foods and carbohydrates are important and how to include it within a healthy diet.
What are starchy foods and carbohydrates?
Starchy foods are foods that are rich in starch, which is a type of carbohydrate. They are sometimes called ‘carbs’.
When we eat starchy foods, our digestive system breaks down the starch into glucose which our body uses for energy.
Which foods contain starch?
Starchy foods are an important source of fibre as well as vitamins and minerals. The starchy food group includes a variety of types of food such as:
- Grains - like rice, bulgur wheat, oats, barley and rye
- Products made from grains like breakfast cereals
- Products made from flour like bread and bread products as well as pasta, noodles and couscous
- Potatoes and potato products - including baked, boiled and mashed potatoes.
- Yams, cassava and plantain
Starchy foods are not fattening if you eat the right portion sizes and should make up just over a third of the food you eat.
It’s important you do not eat more calories than you need from any food group.
