What type of carbohydrate provides quick but short-lasting energy?

Simple sugars are a type of carbohydrate that are composed of one or two sugar molecules. They are quickly broken down by the body and absorbed into the bloodstream, leading to a rapid increase in blood sugar levels. This fast absorption provides a quick source of energy, which is why simple sugars are often utilized during intense physical activity or sudden bursts of energy needs.

Due to their structure, simple sugars do not require extensive digestion, allowing for immediate energy availability. However, this quick energy boost is often short-lived, as the body rapidly utilizes these sugars, leading to a potential crash in energy levels once the initial sugar supply is depleted.

In contrast, complex sugars and glycogen take longer to break down and provide more sustained energy over a longer period. Fiber, on the other hand, is indigestible by the body and does not offer any form of immediate or stored energy.