The functions of carbohydrates are numerous. These substances themselves are synthesized in our bodies in small quantities, which means that we should consume enough carbohydrate foods daily. Easily digestible carbohydrates, as well as other others, can be obtained from products of plant origin. The reason is that the primary synthesis occurs precisely in plants with a green color. It is possible due to photosynthesis. For example, in cereals of these substances there can be up to 80 percent.
Carbohydrate functions
There are several of them. It makes sense to consider each of them in detail.
The first is energy. The fact is that carbohydrates break down with the release of energy. It can dissipate as heat or be deposited in ATP molecules. Up to six percent of our energy comes from carbohydrates. They provide more than 70 percent muscle stamina. They are also an essential energy substrate for the brain.
There is also the plastic function of carbohydrates. The thing is that they are used to build nucleic acids, as well as various nucleotides. They are included in the composition of enzymes, are structural elements of individual membranes.
They are part of our nutrient supply. They are able to accumulate in skeletal muscles, organs, tissues. Accumulation occurs in the form of glycogen. If a person is constantly in motion, then the supply of this substance becomes larger. This is good, as the body becomes more resilient. Everyone, for sure, already understood how to increase their own performance.
The functions of carbohydrates include a specific function. It is due to the fact that these substances are directly involved in the process of blood coagulation, prevent tumors from appearing, and are anticoagulants.
Consider the rest of the functions of carbohydrates.
They also have a protective function. The fact is that the substances in question are components of the immune system. If they are not enough for a long time, then we begin to constantly and unreasonably get sick. It is unlikely that anyone today is surprised that our health depends on what foods we use, as well as on what substances these products contain.
There is also a regulatory function. Fiber, which is contained in food, is not able to be digested in our stomachs, however, it is able to improve it.
Carbohydrates that are found in products of plant origin (these include vegetables, bread, etc.) are presented in the form of various polysaccharides (mono-, di-).
Monosaccharides are almost always sucrose and glucose. They are contained in honey, fruits and so on. They are called sugars. Glucose enters the bloodstream almost instantly. It leads to hyperglycemia of the blood, which in turn causes the pancreas to activate the function of producing insulin - a substance that can ensure glucose gets into the tissue. Insulin worked - the level of glucose in the blood dropped sharply. The result will be weakness.