Funcations of Carbohydrates::
1. Energy Supply::
The most important function of carbohydrates is to supply emergy for the body tissues Energy from carbohydrate is utilised by the body for immediate use nervous tissues and erythrocytes use glucose for their energy whereas other tissues can make use of fatty acids for energy Carbohydrates are required for muscular exercises and normal functioning of brain
2.Special Functions in the Liver::
Carbohydrates have protective and detoxifying action in liver liver is protected angainst bacterial toxins by producing glycuronic acid or acetyl groups from carbohydrates they are excreted through kidneys Since the defences of the liver against toxic agents are of great importance to the body this function of liver is very valuable for this purpose glycogen is made use of and thus carbohydrates play a significant role in removing poisonous substances from the liver Carbohydrates especially lactose helps the growth of desirable bacteria in the small intestine and help the synthesis of some B-complex vitamins in the intestinal tract Lactose also helps in the absorption of calcium
3. Protein-sparing Effect::
if carbohydrate supply is enough in the diet protein is spared for important functions of it This effect exerted by carbohydrate is called protein -sparing effect insufficient intake of carbohydrate forces amino acids to be de-aminated and converted to fatty acids for energy purpose
4.Synthesis of Non-essential Amino Acids and Fats::
Carbon skeleton of carbohydrate is used by the body for the synthesis of non essential amino acids Carbohydrate is essential for the oxidation of fat In extreme restriction of carbohydrate fat may be metabolised rapidly
5. Flavour and Variety::
Carbohydrate provides flavour and variety to the diet cellulose and other indigestible polysaccharides add bulk to the diet carbohydrate also retains water content of colon which helps intestinal motility
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