Carbohydrates Flashcards
(17 cards)
What are carbohydrates?
Carbohydrates are organic compounds made of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. They are a primary source of energy for the body.
What are the main types of carbohydrates?
The main types are sugars, starches, and fibers.
Where are carbohydrates found in the diet?
Carbohydrates are found in foods like fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes.
What are monosaccharides?
Monosaccharides are the simplest form of carbohydrates, consisting of a single sugar molecule. Examples include glucose, fructose, and galactose.
What are disaccharides?
Disaccharides are carbohydrates formed by two monosaccharides joined together. Examples include sucrose (glucose + fructose), lactose (glucose + galactose), and maltose (glucose + glucose).
What are polysaccharides?
Polysaccharides are complex carbohydrates made up of long chains of monosaccharide units. Examples include starch, glycogen, and cellulose.
What is starch?
Starch is a polysaccharide found in plants, serving as a storage form of energy. It is digestible and provides a significant source of glucose.
What is glycogen?
Glycogen is the storage form of glucose in animals, primarily stored in the liver and muscles. It is readily converted to glucose when needed.
What is fiber?
Fiber is a type of carbohydrate that the body cannot digest. It is found in plant foods and is important for digestive health.
What happens to glucose after digestion?
After digestion, glucose enters the bloodstream and is transported to cells for energy.
How is blood glucose regulated?
Blood glucose levels are regulated by hormones such as insulin and glucagon. Insulin lowers blood glucose, while glucagon raises it.
What is the role of the liver in glucose metabolism?
The liver stores glucose as glycogen and releases it into the bloodstream as needed to maintain energy balance.
What are the health benefits of dietary fiber?
Dietary fiber helps regulate bowel movements, lower cholesterol levels, control blood sugar levels, and maintain a healthy weight.
What are the two types of dietary fiber?
Soluble fiber, which dissolves in water and can help lower blood cholesterol levels, and insoluble fiber, which adds bulk to stool and aids in digestion.
What are the recommended daily intakes of fiber?
The recommended daily intake is 25 grams for women and 38 grams for men.
What are resistant starches?
Resistant starches are starches that resist digestion in the small intestine and act similarly to dietary fiber. They are found in foods like legumes, unripe bananas, and cooked and cooled potatoes.
What are the health effects of excessive starch intake?
Excessive intake of starch, especially refined starches, can lead to weight gain and increased risk of chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes and heart disease
