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Carbohydrates

Last reviewed dd mmm yyyy. Last edited dd mmm yyyy

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Carbohydrates are a large group of compounds whose primary function is as an energy source. They are composed of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen. The ratio of hydrogen to oxygen is usually 2:1.

The simplest forms are the monosaccharide sugars of which glucose holds prime importance. Two monosaccharides may join to form a disaccharide; the polymeric combination of many monosaccharides gives rise to the polysaccharides. Glycogen is an important energy storage compound in animals. Cellulose is a component of dietary fibre. Both are polysaccharides.

Glycoproteins, the combination of protein and carbohydrate, are vital for immune and plasma membrane functions. Tissue plasminogen activator is a glycoprotein.

A typical developed world adult diet contains approximately 250-500 g/day of carbohydrate constituting:

  • 180-300 g/day of starch, glycogen or cellulose
  • 80-150 g/day of sucrose
  • 20-50 g/day of lactose
  • 10-30 g/day of fructose and glucose

Pathology may affect any stage of carbohydrate metabolism from digestion e.g. lactose intolerance, to storage e.g. glycogen storage diseases.


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The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

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