Macromolecules and Living Systems

Macromolecules

Large molecules made from smaller subunits.

Functions of Macromolecules

Provide energy, regulate cell activities, build and repair body tissues.

Metabolism

The sum of all chemical reactions in the body.

Essential Nutrients

Nutrients that cannot be synthesized by the body and must be obtained through food.

Carbohydrates

A class of macromolecules that serve as a quick energy source and material for building cell membranes.

Monosaccharides

Single sugars like glucose, fructose and galactose.

Disaccharides

Double sugars such as sucrose, lactose, and maltose.

Complex Carbohydrates (Polysaccharides)

Long chains of monosaccharides, examples include starch, cellulose, and glycogen.

Lipids

Macromolecules that do not dissolve in water and are important for long-term energy storage, insulation, and building cell membranes.

Triglycerides

A type of lipid with high energy concentration, providing insulation.

Phospholipids

Lipids found in cell membranes, consisting of hydrophilic heads and hydrophobic tails.

Proteins

Macromolecules made of amino acids, serving various functions including structural support, enzymes, and immunological functions.

Polypeptides

Chains of amino acids linked by peptide bonds.

Essential Amino Acids

Nine amino acids that must be obtained from the diet.

Nucleic Acids

Macromolecules that store and transmit genetic information; includes DNA and RNA.

Enzymes

Proteins that catalyze chemical reactions without being consumed in the process.

Hydrolysis

A process where water breaks macromolecules into smaller units, requiring enzymes.

Carbohydrase

A digestive enzyme that breaks carbohydrates down into sugars.

Minerals and Vitamins

Nutrients that support chemical reactions and aid in growth, immunity, and tissue development.

Functions of Water

Nutrient transport, waste removal, lubrication, temperature regulation, and blood and mucus formation.

Stages of Food Processing

Ingestion, digestion, absorption, elimination.