Funciones y Estructuras de los Carbohidratos

Carbohydrates: Functions and Structures

Carbohydrates are one of the three macronutrients that make up our diet, along with protein and fat. They are molecules composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms. In our diet, carbohydrates serve various functions, including providing energy, controlling blood glucose and insulin metabolism, participating in cholesterol and triglyceride metabolism, and helping with fermentation.

Structures of Carbohydrates

1. Monosaccharides: These are the most basic unit of carbohydrates, known as simple sugars. The most common monosaccharide is glucose, which is represented by the chemical formula C6H12O6. Other examples include galactose and fructose.

2. Disaccharides: These are compound sugars made up of two monosaccharides with the elimination of a water molecule. Examples of disaccharides include sucrose (table sugar) and lactose (milk sugar).

3. Oligosaccharides: These are polymers that contain three to ten monosaccharides. Maltodextrins and raffinose are examples of oligosaccharides.

4. Polysaccharides: These are polymers containing long chains of monosaccharides connected through glycosidic bonds. Examples of polysaccharides include amylose (found in starchy foods like potatoes) and cellulose (found in plant cell walls).

Types of Carbohydrates

1. Simple Carbohydrates: These contain one or two sugars (monosaccharides or disaccharides) and are easily utilized for energy, causing a rapid rise in blood sugar and insulin secretion from the pancreas. Examples include fructose, lactose, and maltose.

2. Complex Carbohydrates: These contain three or more sugars (oligosaccharides or polysaccharides) and take longer to digest, resulting in a more gradual effect on the increase in blood sugar. Examples include cellobiose, rutinulose, amylose, and cellulose.

Functions of Carbohydrates in the Body

1. Energy Source: Carbohydrates, particularly glucose, are the primary source of energy for the body, providing 4 kilocalories (17 kilojoules) per gram.

2. Storage: Any excess glucose in the bloodstream is stored in the liver and muscle tissue until further energy is needed.

3. Structure and Function of Cells, Tissues, and Organs: Carbohydrates play an essential role in the structure and function of cells, tissues, and organs.

4. Fermentation: Carbohydrates are also involved in fermentation processes, such as those occurring in the gut.

In summary, carbohydrates have numerous functions in the human body, including providing energy, controlling blood glucose and insulin metabolism, participating in cholesterol and triglyceride metabolism, and helping with fermentation. They come in various forms, including monosaccharides, disaccharides, oligosaccharides, and polysaccharides, each serving different functions and providing varying amounts of energy.