Carbohydrates Flashcards
What is the function of carbohydrates?
Carbohydrates provide the body with energy as it needs energy in order to function. It acts as a ‘protein sparer’ so that protein can be used for its primary functions rather than as a source of energy.
Where are carbohydrates produced? (sources)
Mainly by plants, during photosynthesis
What types of carbohydrates are there?
Monosaccharides, Disaccharides, Polysaccharides and Non-starch polysaccharides
What are the types of Monosaccharides?
Fructose, Glucose and Galactose
What types of Disaccharides are there?
Sucrose, Lactose, Maltose
What types of Polysaccharides are there?
Starch, Dextrin, Pectin, Glycogen
What types of Non-starch Polysaccarides are there?
Cellulose, Pectin,
What are the effects of excess carbohydrates?
Eating too many carbohydrates in the diet can lead to obesity as excess is converted into fat and stored below the skin.
What are the effects of deficiency of carbohydrates in the diet?
The body starts to use protein as its energy supplier but the body needs protein for its main function (growth and repair) but it can’t proceed to its main function if its being used for energy.
Carbohydrates into energy in the body are released at different rates, how do sugars release their energy?
They are absorbed quickly into the body, they provide us with instant energy.
Carbohydrates into energy in the body are released at different rates, how do starches release their energy?
Converted slower than sugars, they must first be broken down into sugars during digestion and then energy is released.
What is a Macro nutrient?
Needed in large quantities.
What is a Micro nutrient?
Needed in smaller quantities than Macro.
