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What are refined carbohydrates?

By Jennifer R. Scott, About.com

Updated: August 10, 2008

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

white bread

White bread is a refined carbohydrate.

NIH.gov
Definition: Foods which have been processed by machinery that strips the bran and germ from the whole grain. The process gives foods a finer texture and prolongs shelf life, but it also removes important nutrients, such as B vitamins, fiber, and iron.
Also Known As: refined carbs, refined sugars
Examples: White rice and pasta made with white flour are examples of refined carbohydrates.
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