Carbohydrates Explained: Roles in the Body and Dietary Sources

Carbohydrates Explained: Roles in the Body and Dietary Sources

Question 1. Functions of carbohydrates.
Answer.

Functions Of Carbohydrates

• Carbohydrates are the most abundant dietary source of energy (4 c/gm)
• Carbohydrates are the precursors for many organic compounds, such as fats and amino acids
• Carbohydrates participate in the structure of the cell membrane
• Carbohydrates play a role in cellular functions such as cell growth, adhesion, and fertilization
• Carbohydrates serve as the storage form of energy (glycogen) to meet the immediate energy demands of the body

Fat-Soluble Vitamins and the Role of Fats in Absorption

The Functions of Fats in the Body: Energy Storage and More

Carbohydrates: Energy, Health, and Nutritional Functions

• Carbohydrate derivatives are used as drugs, e.g., cardiac glycosides and antibiotics
• Lactose is the principal sugar of milk in the lactating mammary gland
• Carbohydrates are constituents of compound lipids and conjugated proteins
• Heparin is an anticoagulant
• Hetero-polysaccharides form the ground substance of tissues.

Functions of Carbohydrates in the Human Body

Question 2. Sources of carbohydrates.
Answer.

Sources of Carbohydrates

The following are the main sources of carbohydrates:

Carbohydrates and Their Role in Metabolism

Fats and Their Role in Hormone Production and Cell Function

• Starches: These are present in cereals, roots, and tubers, e.g., Rice, wheat, ragi, pulses, potatoes, tapioca, yam, and cassava.
• Sugars
  • Monosaccharides (simple sugars): glucose, fructose, and galactose
  • Disaccharides (Double sugars): sucrose, lactose, maltose.
  • Polysaccharides (Complex carbohydrates), e.g., cellulose.