Carbohydrates Classification

Classification of Carbohydrates

• Simple Carbohydrates (Sugars)
  • Monosaccharides: single sugar molecules
    • Examples: glucose, fructose, galactose
  • Disaccharides: two sugar molecules bonded together
    • Examples: sucrose (table sugar), lactose (milk sugar), maltose
• Complex Carbohydrates (Polysaccharides)
  • Oligosaccharides: 3-10 sugar molecules bonded together
    • Examples: raffinose, stachyose
  • Polysaccharides: 10 or more sugar molecules bonded together
    • Examples: starch, glycogen, cellulose, chitin

Functions of Carbohydrates

• Energy Source: primary source of energy for the body
• Structural Role: component of cell walls, exoskeletons, and other structures
• Fiber: non-digestible carbohydrates that aid in digestion and satiety

Sources of Carbohydrates

• Plant-based: fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes
• Animal-based: milk, honey, lactose-containing products
• Refined: sugar, white bread, pasta, sweetened beverages

Importance of Carbohydrates

• Brain Function: primary source of energy for the brain
• Physical Performance: essential for energy production during exercise
• Digestive Health: fiber helps maintain healthy gut bacteria and bowel function

Classification of Carbohydrates

• Monosaccharides are single sugar molecules, examples include glucose, fructose, and galactose.
• Disaccharides are two sugar molecules bonded together, examples include sucrose (table sugar), lactose (milk sugar), and maltose.
• Oligosaccharides are 3-10 sugar molecules bonded together, examples include raffinose and stachyose.
• Polysaccharides are 10 or more sugar molecules bonded together, examples include starch, glycogen, cellulose, and chitin.

Functions of Carbohydrates

• Carbohydrates serve as the primary source of energy for the body.
• They play a structural role as a component of cell walls, exoskeletons, and other structures.
• Fiber, a type of carbohydrate, aids in digestion and satiety.

Sources of Carbohydrates

• Plant-based sources include fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes.
• Animal-based sources include milk, honey, and lactose-containing products.
• Refined sources include sugar, white bread, pasta, and sweetened beverages.

Importance of Carbohydrates

• Carbohydrates are the primary source of energy for the brain.
• They are essential for energy production during exercise and physical performance.
• Fiber helps maintain healthy gut bacteria and bowel function, promoting digestive health.