Question

1.

A) Why are carbohydrates considered our most valuable energy source?
B) What are the RDA for carbohydrates?
C) What are the ill effects of sugar in your diet?
D) Outline the beneficial effects of fiber on the body?

Answer 1

A) Glucose is the primary source of energy for every tissue esp. the erythrocytes and nerve tissue derive the energy from glucose by glycolysis.

B) 45 to 65 % of calorie should be contributed by carbohydrate in diet on daily basis.

C) Side effects of high sugar diet;

• Excess of glucose in diet is converted and stored in fat deposits as triacyl glycerol. Thus, increase the fatty acid level.
• May lead to obesity.
• The condition may also lead to glycosuria. (case specific)
• Eventually insulin intolerance and diabetes. (case specific)

D) Benefits of fiber;

• Proper bowel movement due to absorption of water.
• Slow down the over all absorption so, helpful in cutting down the amount of fat absorbed in the body.
• It lowers the glycemic index of the food to be absorbed.
• It strengthen the gut microflora by increasing LAB.
• Formation of short chain fatty acid. It is beneficial for;
  • sodium and water absorption
  • production of gastrointestinal hormone
  • proliferation of colonocyte
  • blood flow in colon
  • stimulation of autonomic nervous system