Carbohydrates Biology

Classification of Carbohydrates

• Simple Carbohydrates (Sugars)
  • Monosaccharides (e.g. glucose, fructose, galactose)
  • Disaccharides (e.g. sucrose, lactose, maltose)
• Complex Carbohydrates (Polysaccharides)
  • Oligosaccharides (e.g. raffinose, stachyose)
  • Polysaccharides (e.g. starch, glycogen, cellulose)

Functions of Carbohydrates

• Energy Source: primary source of energy for the body
• Structural Role: found in cell walls and exoskeletons of organisms
• Storage: stored in the form of glycogen in the liver and muscles

Types of Carbohydrates

• Starch: complex carbohydrate found in plants, broken down into glucose
• Glycogen: complex carbohydrate found in animals, broken down into glucose
• Fiber: complex carbohydrate found in plants, not digestible by humans
• Cellulose: complex carbohydrate found in plant cell walls, not digestible by humans

Digestion and Absorption of Carbohydrates

• Mouth: carbohydrates broken down into simple sugars by salivary amylase
• Small Intestine: carbohydrates broken down into simple sugars by pancreatic amylase
• Absorption: simple sugars absorbed into the bloodstream and transported to the liver

Importance of Carbohydrates

• Brain Function: primary source of energy for the brain
• Athletic Performance: important source of energy for muscles during exercise
• Overall Health: play a crucial role in maintaining overall health and well-being