AFAA Personal Trainer Certification Practice Exam

Which of the following is considered a simple carbohydrate?

1. Whole grain bread

2. Brown rice

3. Lactose from milk

4. Oatmeal

The correct answer is: Lactose from milk

Lactose from milk is classified as a simple carbohydrate because it is a disaccharide sugar that is composed of two simpler sugars, glucose and galactose. Simple carbohydrates are easily digestible and rapidly absorbed by the body, providing a quick source of energy. Lactose is naturally found in dairy products and is broken down by the enzyme lactase in the digestive system. On the other hand, whole grain bread, brown rice, and oatmeal are examples of complex carbohydrates. They contain longer chains of sugar molecules, which take more time for the body to break down and digest. This slow digestion results in a more gradual release of glucose into the bloodstream, providing sustained energy rather than a quick spike.