Carbohydrates and Fiber Flashcards
Organic compounds composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen
Carbohydrates
Main function is to provide energy for the body
Carbohydrates
Average minimum of carbohydrates needed to fuel the brain
130 g/day
Carbohydrates help to regulate ______ and ____ metabolism
protein, fat
Carbohydrates are essential for normal ______ and ______ _______ _______ functioning
cardiac, central nervous system
Simple carbohydrates (2)
Monosaccharides
Disaccharides
Examples and sources of monosaccharides
Glucose (corn syrup)
Fructose (fruits)
Galactose (milk sugar broken down)
Examples and sources of disaccharides
Sucrose (table sugar, molasses)
Lactose (milk sugar)
Maltose (sweeteners)
Complex carbohydrates
Polysaccharides
Examples and sources of polysaccharides
Starch (grains, legumes, root vegetables)
Fiber (indigestible plant parts)
Glycogen
Where are complex carbohydrates absorbed?
Intestine and into bloodstream
Where are complex carbohydrates stored?
Liver and muscles for energy needs
Where does carbohydrate absorption occur mainly?
Small intestine using pancreatic and intestinal enzymes
Stored carbohydrate energy source found in the liver and muscles that is a vital source of backup energy
Glycogen
How much energy does a carbohydrate provide?
4 cal/g
Categorized as carbohydrate but it does not yield energy for body
Fiber
Substance in plant foods that is indigestible
dietary fiber
Types of dietary fiber
Pectin
Gum
Cellulose
Mucilage
How does fiber contribute to proper bowel elimination?
Adds bulk to feces and stimulates peristalsis to ease elimination
How can fiber benefit a person other than with bowel elimination?
Helps lower cholesterol
Lessens the incidence of intestinal cancers
What is the function of monosaccharides?
Provides basic energy for cells
What is the function of disaccharides?
Provides energy
Aids calcium and phosphorus absorption (lactose)
What is function of polysaccharides?
Energy storage (starches) Digestive aid (fiber)
