Chapter

The Functions of Carbohydrates in the Body

From Human Nutrition by Human Nutrition

Concepts

1. Energy Production

   "The primary role of carbohydrates is to supply energy to all cells in the body. Many cells prefer glucose as a source of energy versus other compounds like fatty acids. Some cells, such as red blood

2. Energy Storage

   "If the body already has enough energy to support its functions, the excess glucose is stored as glycogen, the majority of which is stored in the muscles and liver. A molecule of glycogen may contain

3. Macromolecules

   "Although most absorbed glucose is used to make energy, some glucose is converted to ribose and deoxyribose, which are essential building blocks of important macromolecules, such as RNA, DNA, and ATP.

4. Protein Lipids

   "In a situation where there is not enough glucose to meet the body’s needs, glucose is synthesized from amino acids. Because there is no storage molecule of amino acids, this process requires the dest