Absorption and metabolism of carbohydrates

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Most nutrient absorption takes place in the small intestines. The monosaccharides
traverse the cell linings of the small intestines by active transport and are washed
away in the circulating blood. The blood then circulates through the liver, whose cells
take up fructose and galactose and convert them to other compounds usually glucose.
As soon as glucose is in the blood stream, it is carried to the individual cells. There it
is used in one of three ways:-
- It is metabolised or oxidised immediately as a source of energy.
- When the amount of glucose available exceeds the amount needed for energy,
it is converted to glycogen in either the liver or muscles for storage.
- When the liver and muscles can no longer store glycogen, glucose is converted
into fat and stored in regular cells or in special fat storage cells known as
adipose cells.

Later when the intake of energy is less than the requirement, the body will use
glycogen stored in the muscles and liver. When the glycogen is almost used up, the
body will switch to using fat reserves. At this time the blood glucose level will have
fallen to the fasting level, which usually stimulates the appetite and causes the
individual to eat so that the glycogen and fat reserves will not be used.

Titany answered the question on November 5, 2021 at 08:56

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