Carbohydrates: Types, Functions, and Importance

HumbleLawrencium avatar
HumbleLawrencium
·
·
Download

Start Quiz

Study Flashcards

6 Questions

What is the primary source of energy for the brain?

Glucose

What is the main function of fiber in the digestive system?

To help prevent constipation and support healthy gut bacteria

What is the name of the enzyme that breaks down starch into maltose in the mouth?

Salivary amylase

What is the term for carbohydrates that are composed of three to ten monosaccharides?

Oligosaccharides

What is the main function of carbohydrates in the body?

To provide energy for the body

What is the source of carbohydrates in dairy products?

Lactose

Study Notes

Types of Carbohydrates

  • Simple Carbohydrates (Sugars):
    • Monosaccharides: glucose, fructose, galactose
    • Disaccharides: sucrose (table sugar), lactose (milk sugar), maltose
  • Complex Carbohydrates (Polysaccharides):
    • Oligosaccharides: raffinose, stachyose
    • Polysaccharides: starch, glycogen, cellulose, chitin

Functions of Carbohydrates

  • Energy Source: primary source of energy for the body
  • Structural Role: provide structure and support for cells and tissues
  • Protective Function: fiber helps prevent constipation and supports healthy gut bacteria

Sources of Carbohydrates

  • Plant-based Sources: fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes
  • Animal-based Sources: dairy products, honey

Digestion and Absorption of Carbohydrates

  • Mouth: salivary amylase breaks down starch into maltose
  • Small Intestine: pancreatic amylase and brush border enzymes break down carbohydrates into monosaccharides
  • Absorption: monosaccharides absorbed into bloodstream and transported to cells

Importance of Carbohydrates

  • Brain Function: glucose is the primary source of energy for the brain
  • Red Blood Cell Function: glucose is necessary for red blood cell production
  • Physical Performance: carbohydrates provide energy for muscles during exercise

Learn about the different types of carbohydrates, their functions in the body, and their importance for energy, brain function, and physical performance. Discover the sources of carbohydrates and how they are digested and absorbed.

Make Your Own Quizzes and Flashcards

Convert your notes into interactive study material.

Get started for free

More Quizzes Like This

Carbohydrates Biology
6 questions

Carbohydrates Biology

GratifyingSatire avatar
GratifyingSatire
Types of Carbohydrates
90 questions

Types of Carbohydrates

BoomingCotangent avatar
BoomingCotangent
Carbohydrates in Food
12 questions

Carbohydrates in Food

ResourcefulBigBen avatar
ResourcefulBigBen
Use Quizgecko on...
Browser
Browser