Carbohydrates

FUNCTIONS AND IMPORTANCE OF THE

CARBOHYDRATES IN THE HUMAN BODY

FUNCTIONS IMPORTANCE

BLOOD SUGARS AND

INSULIN The pancreas secretes the hormone insulin, which
controls blood sugar levels, as the level rises. A
person may develop diabetes if their blood sugar
levels cannot be controlled by their insulin.

PROVIDES ENERGY
Carbohydrates are the major source of energy.
Carbohydrates are simple to digest and quickly
dissolved in the blood, which gives off energy. 4
calories are contained in 1 gram of carbohydrates.

TRIGGERS HUNGER AND Following a meal high in refined carbohydrates,

FULLNESS blood sugar levels begin to decline an hour or two
later. This encourages appetite and activates the
areas of the brain connected to craving and reward.
These signals increase your appetite and are linked
to overeating.

BRAIN FUNCTIONALITY
Carbohydrates break down into glucose which is
also the primary source of energy for the brain, and in
turn, glucose supports the brain's overall functioning.

DIGESTION Digesting or metabolizing carbohydrates breaks

foods down into sugars, which are also called
saccharides. These molecules begin digesting in the
mouth and continue through the body to be used for
anything from normal cell functioning to cell growth
and repair.

WEIGHT
Carbohydrates affects the weight of the individual.
Consuming more carbohydrates results to more
calories. Excess calories contributes largely on our
body weight.