Module 2 - Gut Health, Metabolism, and Energy

What are important components of a healthy gut?

Balanced microbiota, adequate fiber, an intact intestinal barrier, hydration, and adequate nutrients.

What are prebiotics?

Types of dietary fiber that provide food for beneficial gut bacteria.

What are probiotics?

Live microorganisms that can provide health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts.

How can diet affect gut microbiota?

Diet can influence the diversity and health of microorganisms living in the gut.

What are catabolic reactions?

Reactions that break molecules down and release energy.

What are anabolic reactions?

Reactions that build molecules and require energy.

What is ATP?

Adenosine triphosphate, the cell's primary energy-transfer molecule.

How does ATP provide energy?

Energy is released when ATP is converted to lower-energy forms through removal of a phosphate group.

What is the general pathway for carbohydrate metabolism?

Glucose → glycolysis → Krebs cycle → electron transport chain → ATP.

What happens to fats during energy metabolism?

Fatty acids undergo beta-oxidation and produce molecules that enter pathways including the Krebs cycle and electron transport chain.

What happens to proteins during energy metabolism?

Proteins are broken into amino acids; after deamination, their components can enter energy-producing pathways.

What role do B vitamins play in metabolism?

Many B vitamins act as or form parts of coenzymes that help metabolic enzymes function.

What is gluconeogenesis?

The production of glucose from non-carbohydrate sources such as amino acids, lactate, or glycerol.

What happens when energy intake exceeds the body's immediate needs?

Excess energy can be stored, initially including as glycogen and, when energy remains in excess, as body fat.

What happens during an energy deficit?

The body uses stored energy, including glycogen and fat; prolonged deficits can also lead to breakdown of lean tissue.

How are nutrients connected to body systems?

Nutrients support cells, which make up tissues, which form organs and ultimately function together in body systems.