Carbohydrate metabolism encompasses the complex biochemical processes responsible for the formation, breakdown, and interconversion of carbohydrates within the body. These pathways are central to energy homeostasis, primarily focusing on glucose as the main fuel source for cellular function. This critical metabolic system is tightly regulated by a sophisticated interplay of hormones, including insulin and glucagon, ensuring a stable supply of energy for all physiological processes. Maintaining proper carbohydrate balance is paramount for overall health and preventing metabolic disorders.
Origin
The term derives from the combination of “carbohydrate,” referring to the polyhydroxy aldehydes or ketones and their derivatives, and “metabolism,” from the Greek metabole, meaning “change.” It signifies the total chemical transformations involving these essential energy-providing molecules. The system belongs to the broad domain of human physiology and endocrinology, as hormones are the principal regulators of its pathways.
Mechanism
The mechanism begins with the digestion of dietary carbohydrates into monosaccharides, primarily glucose, which are then absorbed into the bloodstream. Key pathways include glycolysis for energy production, glycogenesis for glucose storage as glycogen in the liver and muscle, and gluconeogenesis for synthesizing glucose from non-carbohydrate precursors. Hormones act as master switches: insulin facilitates glucose uptake and storage, while glucagon and cortisol promote glucose release, collectively ensuring that blood glucose levels remain within a narrow, physiological range to support optimal cellular function.
We use cookies to personalize content and marketing, and to analyze our traffic. This helps us maintain the quality of our free resources. manage your preferences below.
Detailed Cookie Preferences
This helps support our free resources through personalized marketing efforts and promotions.
Analytics cookies help us understand how visitors interact with our website, improving user experience and website performance.
Personalization cookies enable us to customize the content and features of our site based on your interactions, offering a more tailored experience.