Starch ... Is Sugar?

Lesson Plan - Get It!

Audio:

As you have guessed, the digestive system is a very important part of the body.

It is able to break down food and give us the nutrients our bodies need. You may be familiar with some of the parts of the digestive system (the mouth, the stomach, the esophagus, the liver, and even the gall bladder), but

• Have you ever wondered what makes up some of the food you eat and how your body works to break down certain foods?

In this lesson, we will take a look at one of the substances of food known as starch, a compound found in many foods that is similar to sugar. Like sugar, starch provides the body with energy.

• Are you ready to learn more about starch?

Let’s join Jo to learn how this breakdown of starch takes place in the digestive system!

As you have seen, iodine is a great indicator to tell whether or not starch is present in certain foods. Some foods contain a lot of starch, while others contain very little. But as you have learned, starch — even though it may not taste sweet — is a special type of sugar.

• Speaking of food, what about the question from earlier? Do you want to know the answer?

Here we go!

Q: “Is it better to do homework on an empty stomach or a full stomach?”

A: “Neither! It's better to do your homework on paper!”

When you are done laughing, continue on to the Got It? section to take a brain check!