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.

This quiz tests your knowledge of carbohydrates, including simple sugars, complex polysaccharides, and their examples. Learn about monosaccharides, disaccharides, oligosaccharides, and polysaccharides.