This document provides an overview of carbohydrates, including their chemical structures, digestion, absorption and metabolism in the body. It discusses the different types of carbohydrates such as monosaccharides, disaccharides and polysaccharides. Key points include:
- Glucose is the primary energy source for the brain and muscles. Glycogen and starch are storage forms of glucose in the body and plants respectively.
- Carbohydrates are broken down into monosaccharides like glucose through digestion before being absorbed and transported to cells.
- Fiber provides bulk and helps regulate digestion, and high-fiber diets are linked to reduced risk of diseases like heart disease and diabetes.
12. Stepped Art –
Glycogen and Starch Compared
A glycogen molecule contains
hundreds of glucose units in
highly branched chains. Each
new glycogen molecule needs
a special protein (shown here
in red) for the attachment of
the first glucose.
A starch molecule contains hundreds of
glucose molecules in either occasionally
branched chains (amylopectin) or
unbranched chains (amylose).
Starch (amylopectin) Starch (amylose)Glycogen
20. Stepped Art-
Absorption of monosaccharides
Monosaccharides, the end products
of carbohydrate digestion, enter the
capillaries of the intestinal villi.
In the liver,
galactose and
fructose share
metabolic
pathways with
glucose.
Small intestine
Monosaccharides travel to
the liver via the portal vein.
Glucose is
used by most
cells in the
body.