complex carbohydrate

noun

: a polysaccharide (such as starch or cellulose) consisting of usually hundreds or thousands of monosaccharide units
also : a food (such as rice or pasta) composed primarily of such polysaccharides

Examples of complex carbohydrate in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The complex carbohydrates and fiber in Japanese sweet potatoes digest more slowly, leading to steadier blood sugar levels. Kathleen Ferraro, Verywell Health, 24 Sep. 2025 This includes fresh fruit and vegetables, lean proteins, omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish, walnuts, and Brazil nuts), and complex carbohydrates (kiwis, tangerines, apples, and others). Mark Gurarie, Health, 22 Sep. 2025 Choose whole foods, lean proteins, and complex carbohydrates to maintain stable energy levels. Bryan Robinson, Forbes.com, 16 Sep. 2025 And levels of Bacteroidota (a group associated with breaking down complex carbohydrates) had increased, while the ratio of Firmicutes to Bacteroidota dropped significantly in the high-training phase. New Atlas, 25 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for complex carbohydrate

Word History

First Known Use

1938, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of complex carbohydrate was in 1938

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Cite this Entry

“Complex carbohydrate.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/complex%20carbohydrate. Accessed 29 Sep. 2025.

Medical Definition

complex carbohydrate

noun
: a polysaccharide (as starch or cellulose) consisting of usually hundreds or thousands of monosaccharide units
also : a food (as rice or pasta) composed primarily of such polysaccharides
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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