Carbohydrates Basics

Carbohydrates

Simple Sugars

• Also known as monosaccharides
• Cannot be broken down into simpler sugars
• Examples:
  • Glucose (dextrose or grape sugar)
  • Fructose (fruit sugar)
  • Galactose (milk sugar)

Glycogen

• A complex carbohydrate stored in the liver and muscles
• Composed of branched chains of glucose molecules
• Functions:
  • Energy storage
  • Quickly converted to glucose for energy
• Important for:
  • Maintaining blood sugar levels
  • Providing energy for high-intensity activities

Complex Carbohydrates

• Also known as polysaccharides
• Composed of three or more sugars linked together
• Examples:
  • Starch (plant-based)
  • Cellulose (plant-based)
  • Chitin (found in insects and crustaceans)
• Functions:
  • Providing energy
  • Supporting digestive health

Saccharides

• General term for carbohydrates, including simple and complex carbohydrates
• Classified into:
  • Monosaccharides (simple sugars)
  • Disaccharides (two sugars linked together)
  • Polysaccharides (three or more sugars linked together)

Carbohydrates Metabolism

• Process by which carbohydrates are broken down to produce energy
• Steps:
  1. Ingestion of carbohydrates
  2. Breakdown into simpler sugars (e.g., glucose)
  3. Absorption into bloodstream
  4. Transport to cells
  5. Cellular respiration (breakdown of glucose to produce energy)
• Regulation:
  • Insulin and glucagon hormones regulate blood sugar levels
  • Glycogen synthesis and breakdown controlled by hormones and enzymes