Which of the following is an example of complex carbohydrates?

• A. Potatoes, whole grain, beans, fruit, vegetables
• B. Sweets, soft drinks, white flour, ice cream, cake
• C. Fatty fish, eggs, cheese
• D. Milk, yogurt

Answer: (A)

Complex carbohydrates come from plant-based foods that contain starch or fiber and digest more slowly, providing steady energy. Potatoes, whole grains, beans, fruits, and vegetables fit this pattern because they supply starch and/or fiber, making them classic sources of complex carbohydrates. The other groups are dominated by simple sugars or other macronutrients: sweets, soft drinks, white flour, ice cream, and cake focus on quick-digesting sugars and refined starches; fatty fish, eggs, and cheese are primarily protein and fat; milk and yogurt are mainly protein and fat with lactose but not substantial complex carbohydrate content. So the plant-based list best exemplifies complex carbohydrates.