Role of Lipids, Carbohydrates, Proteins, Vitamins, and Minerals Flashcards
What is the primary role of lipids in the body?
Lipids store energy, provide insulation, and protect organs.
Name three types of lipids and their functions.
Triglycerides (energy storage), phospholipids (cell membranes), sterols (hormones and vitamins).
How do triglycerides function in energy storage?
Triglycerides are broken down into fatty acids and glycerol, providing energy.
What is the role of phospholipids in cell membranes?
Phospholipids form the bilayer of cell membranes, providing structure and regulating transport.
How do lipids contribute to hormone production?
Lipids are precursors for steroid hormones like estrogen and testosterone.
What is the function of cholesterol in the body?
Cholesterol stabilizes cell membranes and is a precursor for bile acids and steroid hormones.
How do essential fatty acids benefit health?
Essential fatty acids (omega-3 and omega-6) reduce inflammation, support brain function, and promote cardiovascular health.
What is the role of lipoproteins in lipid transport?
Lipoproteins transport lipids through the bloodstream to tissues.
How do omega-3 fatty acids affect cardiovascular health?
Omega-3 fatty acids reduce triglycerides, lower blood pressure, and decrease the risk of heart disease.
What is the role of carbohydrates in energy metabolism?
Carbohydrates are the primary source of energy for cells, especially the brain and muscles.
How are simple carbohydrates different from complex carbohydrates in structure and function?
Simple carbohydrates (sugars) are quickly absorbed and provide rapid energy; complex carbohydrates (starches) provide sustained energy.
What is the function of glucose in the body?
Glucose is the main energy source for cellular respiration.
How is glycogen stored and used in the body?
Glycogen is stored in the liver and muscles and broken down into glucose when needed for energy.
What role do dietary fibers play in digestion?
Dietary fibers aid in digestion, regulate blood sugar levels, and support gut health.
How do carbohydrates influence blood sugar levels?
Carbohydrates raise blood sugar levels, with simple carbs causing rapid spikes and complex carbs providing steady increases.
What is the significance of the glycemic index in carbohydrate metabolism?
The glycemic index measures how quickly foods raise blood sugar levels, influencing energy and insulin response.
How do carbohydrates interact with proteins in glycoproteins?
Carbohydrates in glycoproteins aid in cell recognition, signaling, and immune response.
How do proteins support growth and repair in the body?
Proteins provide the building blocks for tissues, repair damaged cells, and support growth.
What is the role of enzymes in biochemical reactions?
Enzymes catalyze biochemical reactions, increasing reaction rates and specificity.
How do hormones like insulin and glucagon regulate metabolism?
Insulin and glucagon regulate blood glucose levels, promoting storage or release of energy.
What is the function of hemoglobin in oxygen transport?
Hemoglobin transports oxygen from the lungs to tissues and returns carbon dioxide to the lungs.
How do antibodies function in the immune response?
Antibodies identify and neutralize pathogens, protecting the body from infections.
How do structural proteins like collagen contribute to connective tissue?
Collagen provides structural support and strength to connective tissues like skin, bones, and tendons.
What role do transport proteins play in cellular function?
Transport proteins facilitate the movement of substances across cell membranes.
