Chapter: 11th Nutrition and Dietetics : Chapter 9 : Carbohydrates and Energy
Carbohydrates and Energy
CARBOHYDRATES AND
ENERGY
Carbohydrates are
widely distributed in plants in which they are formed from Co2 of
the atmosphere by photosynthesis. Carbohydrates are the preferred source of
energy for most of the body functions. As long as carbohydrates are available,
the human brain depends exclusively on it as an energy source. They are the
cheapest and most important source of energy for the vast majority of people in
the tropics.
Our body needs energy
to grow and repair themselves, keep warm and do physical activity. Energy comes
from food and drink, in particular from carbohydrate, protein and fat
(collectively known as macronutrients). The amount of each macronutrient in the
food will determine its energy content.
In this lesson the students will be able to:
·
understand the importance of carbohydrates as an economical
source of energy
·
know the significance
of
complex carbohydrates
·
understand the importance
of
basal metabolism and
basal metabolic rate
·
create an awareness about the benefits of physical activity as
part of a healthy lifestyle.
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