Which carbohydrates typically take longer to digest?

Polysaccharides are carbohydrates that are made up of long chains of monosaccharide units. Because of their complex structure, they generally take longer to break down and digest compared to simpler carbohydrates. The digestive process involves breaking down these long chains into their monosaccharide components, which can then be absorbed by the body. This means that polysaccharides provide a more sustained release of energy, making them a valuable source of fuel for the body, especially for activities that require endurance.

In contrast, simple sugars, disaccharides, and monosaccharides are shorter chains of carbohydrates that the body can break down quickly, resulting in faster digestion and absorption. This rapid digestion may lead to quick spikes in blood sugar levels, while polysaccharides help to maintain more stable energy levels over a longer period.