CHAPTER 4 THE CARBOHYDRATES: SUGARS, STARCHES, AND FIBERS

Flashcards covering key concepts from 'CHAPTER 4 THE CARBOHYDRATES: SUGARS, STARCHES, AND FIBERS' lecture notes, including types, structure, digestion, absorption, metabolism, health effects, and dietary recommendations for carbohydrates.

What are the three main types of carbohydrates?

Monosaccharides, Disaccharides, and Polysaccharides.

What are monosaccharides?

Single sugars, such as glucose, fructose, and galactose, all having the chemical formula C6H12O6 but differing in atomic arrangement.

Which monosaccharide is known as 'blood sugar' and is an essential energy source?

Glucose.

What are disaccharides and what are three common examples?

Pairs of monosaccharides; Maltose (glucose + glucose), Sucrose (glucose + fructose), and Lactose (glucose + galactose).

What is the process called when two monosaccharides are linked together, releasing water?

Condensation.

What is the process called to break a disaccharide into two monosaccharides, requiring the addition of water?

Hydrolysis.

What are polysaccharides and give examples?

Compounds composed of many monosaccharides linked together. Examples include glycogen, starches, and fibers.

What is the storage form of energy in the body for carbohydrates?

Glycogen, stored in the liver and muscles.

How do dietary fibers differ from starches?

Fibers have bonds that are not digested by human digestive enzymes, unlike starches.

What is the difference between soluble and insoluble fiber?

Soluble fiber dissolves in water to form a gel (e.g., pectin) and offers benefits like lowering cholesterol, while insoluble fiber does not dissolve in water (e.g., celery strings) and promotes GI health.

Where does carbohydrate digestion begin and with what enzyme?

It begins in the mouth with salivary amylase breaking down polysaccharides.

What is lactose intolerance?

A condition characterized by symptoms like bloating, abdominal pain, and diarrhea due to declining lactase activity, making it difficult to digest lactose.

What are the roles of insulin and glucagon in maintaining blood glucose homeostasis?

Insulin moves glucose from the blood into cells when blood glucose is high, while glucagon brings glucose out from storage when blood glucose is low.

What is gluconeogenesis?

The process of making glucose from protein in the body.

What are some negative health effects of excessive sugar consumption?

Nutrient deficiencies due to empty calories, and an increased risk of chronic diseases and dental caries.

What are two key recommended daily intake guidelines for carbohydrates and added sugars?

Carbohydrates should constitute 45-65% of energy requirements, and added sugars should be less than 10% of total energy intake.

What are some health benefits associated with adequate intake of starches and fibers?

Reduced risk of heart disease, improved blood glucose control for diabetes, enhanced GI health, reduced cancer risk, and assistance with weight management.