Define and classify carbohydrates with suitable examples. Add a note on the functions of carbohydrates?

Carbohydrates are organic compounds made up of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms. They are one of the main sources of energy for the human body and are found in a wide variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, grains, and dairy products.

Carbohydrates can be classified into three main groups:

1. Monosaccharides: These are the simplest form of carbohydrates and consist of single sugar molecules. Examples include glucose, fructose, and galactose.

2. Disaccharides: These are carbohydrates made up of two monosaccharide units joined together. Examples include sucrose (glucose + fructose), lactose (glucose + galactose), and maltose (glucose + glucose).

3. Polysaccharides: These are complex carbohydrates made up of long chains of monosaccharide units. Examples include starch, glycogen, and cellulose.

Carbohydrates play several important functions in the body, including:

1. Providing energy: Carbohydrates are the body's primary source of energy and are broken down into glucose, which is used by cells for fuel.

2. Supporting brain function: Glucose is the main source of energy for the brain, and a steady supply of carbohydrates is essential for optimal brain function.

3. Promoting digestion: Dietary fiber, a type of carbohydrate found in plant foods, helps to promote healthy digestion and prevent constipation.

4. Supporting muscle function: Carbohydrates are important for fueling muscle contractions during exercise and physical activity.

Overall, carbohydrates are essential for overall health and well-being and should make up a significant portion of a balanced diet.

Definition of Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates are organic compounds composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, typically in the ratio of 1:2:1. They are classified based on their structure and complexity.

Classification of Carbohydrates

- Monosaccharides: Simple sugars with one sugar unit, e.g., glucose, fructose, galactose
- Disaccharides: Composed of two monosaccharides joined by a glycosidic bond, e.g., sucrose (glucose + fructose), lactose (glucose + galactose), maltose (glucose + glucose)
- Oligosaccharides: Contain 3-10 monosaccharide units, e.g., raffinose, stachyose
- Polysaccharides: Complex carbohydrates composed of many monosaccharide units joined by glycosidic bonds, e.g., starch, glycogen, cellulose

Functions of Carbohydrates

- Primary energy source: Glucose is the main source of energy for most living organisms.
- Structural components: Cellulose and chitin provide structural support to plant cell walls and animal exoskeletons, respectively.
- Storage of energy: Glycogen in animals and starch in plants serve as energy reserves.
- Signaling molecules: Carbohydrate chains attached to proteins and lipids play roles in cell recognition, adhesion, and immune function.
- Fiber: Non-digestible carbohydrates promote gut health and regularity.