Dr. A's Carbohydrate flashcard

Front

What are carbohydrates?

Back

Carbohydrates are a group of organic molecules that include sugars, starches, and glucose.

Front

What is the primary function of carbohydrates in the body?

Back

The primary function of carbohydrates is to serve as the body's main source of energy.

Front

What is a monosaccharide?

Back

A monosaccharide is the simplest form of carbohydrate, consisting of a single sugar molecule.

Front

Which organic compound is the main source of energy for living organisms?

Back

Carbohydrates are the main source of energy for living organisms.

Front

What are some common food sources of carbohydrates?

Back

Common food sources of carbohydrates include grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes.

Front

What are the three main types of carbohydrates?

Back

The three main types of carbohydrates are sugars (simple carbohydrates), starches (complex carbohydrates), and fiber.

Front

What is the difference between simple and complex carbohydrates?

Back

Simple carbohydrates consist of one or two sugar molecules and are quickly absorbed by the body, while complex carbohydrates consist of longer chains of sugar molecules and take longer to digest.

Front

What role do carbohydrates play in cellular respiration?

Back

Carbohydrates are broken down into glucose, which is then used in cellular respiration to produce ATP, the energy currency of the cell.

Front

What is dietary fiber and why is it important?

Back

Dietary fiber is a type of carbohydrate that the body cannot digest. It is important for digestive health and helps regulate blood sugar levels.

Front

How do carbohydrates affect blood sugar levels?

Back

Carbohydrates can cause blood sugar levels to rise after consumption, especially simple carbohydrates, which are quickly digested.