The Cycle Of Carbohydrates Through The Body

Carbohydrates go through a complex series of chemical reactions that reduce foods to a usable form. Digestion is just the beginning of the cycle of carbs through your body. The nutrients and other chemicals they contain serve numerous functions, including energy production. All cells of the body benefit from the fuel that carbohydrates provide.

Types of Carbohydrates

There are two basic types of carbohydrates: simple and complex. The distinction lies in their chemical structure. These properties in turn affect how the body metabolizes carbohydrates and the effects you may feel from eating carbs. Simple carbohydrates include foods like fruits and some vegetables. Complex carbs include starches like potatoes as well as fiber sources like whole grains and nuts. The more chemically complex a food is, the longer it takes the body to digest it.

Digestion

Digestion begins as soon as you eat something. Your saliva contains enzymes that begin the process. Once in the stomach, carbohydrates remain for about two hours. Fats and proteins stay in the stomach longer because it takes more time to digest these foods. Digestion breaks the carbs you eat into substances the body can absorb and use. Little absorption occurs in the stomach. Most of the nutrients found in the carbs you eat are absorbed in the small intestine.

Blood Sugar Control

When you eat carbs, metabolism releases sugar into your bloodstream. Your body will use the sugar to fuel the activities of the cells. However, your body maintains strict control over blood sugar. If levels are high, the pancreas releases insulin to stimulate your muscles and liver to store the excess amounts. Energy is too precious a resource to waste. Likewise, if your blood sugar levels drop, your pancreas secretes another hormone called glucagon. This hormone stimulates the liver to break down stores of sugar to restore normal levels. This regulation of blood sugar is one example of how the body maintains stability, or homeostasis.

Carbs as Energy

One way in which carbs are cycled through the body is energy production. Carbs provide the raw materials for the mitochondria of the cells to produce fuel. The mitochondria are structures within cells that act as the energy plant. During vigorous exercise, your body will rely primarily on carbohydrates for energy. Your body can produce fuel more efficiently using chemical reactions that require carbs and oxygen. Your need for energy is greatest during strenuous activity, making carbs the preferred source.