Chapter 4: The Carbohydrates
Glucose in the Body
Maintaning Glucose Homeostase
Regulating Hormones
Glucagon
Insulin
Glucose in the Blood
Cells
Brings glucose out of storage when needed
Insulin
After a meal
Stimulate
Storage of glycogen in the liver and muscles
Conversion of excess glucose
Uptake of glucose from the blood
Cells
Fat (for storage)
Glucagon
Secretaded when blood glucose falls
Stimulate
Release of glucose into the blood
Breakdown of glycogen from the liver
Epinephine
Releases glucose from the cells
Situations of stress
Blood glucose regulation fails
Hypoglycemia (rare in healthy people)
Diabetes
Blood glucose rises after meal
Remains in levels above the normal ones
Type 1
Type 2 (more common)
Pancreas fails to produce insulin
Cells fail to respond to insulin
Associated with obesity
blood glucose drops below normal
Mostly because of poorly managed diabetes / other diseases
Glycemic Response
How quickly glucose is absorbed after a person eats
How high blood glucose rises
How quickly blood glucose returns to normal
Health Effects and Recommended Intakes of Sugars
Glycemic Index
Glucose
Storing as glycogen
Using for energy
Making from protein
Fat
Functions of sugar in foods
Bulking agent in ice cream and baked goods
Adds texture and color
Balances acidity
Enhances flavour
Imparts a creamy consistency
Inhibits microbial growth
Fuel for alcohol fermentation
Corn Syrup
Retains moisture
Resists drying
Controls crystallization
Prevents microbial growth
Added sugars
Blends easily
Diet with high sugar
More difficult to meet the other recommendation values
Dental Caries
Bacteria in the mouth
Ferment sugars
Acide
Erodes tooth enamel
Alternative Sweeteners
Artificial Sweeteners
Sweet flavour without extra calories
High-Intensity Sweeteners
Food and beverages
Sugar Alcohols
Naturally in fruits and vegetables
Low glycemic response
"Sugar free"
Dental Caries 🚫
Health Effects and Recommended Intakes of Starch and Fibers
Diet with high sugars
Heart disease ⚠
Diet rich in whole grains, pulses, vegetables and fruits
May protect against heart disease
When CH is high
Fats are low (generally)
High fibers
Glucose absorption is slowed
Prevents type 2 diabetes
Dietary fibers
Enhances the health of the large intestine
May protect against cancer of the colon and rectum
Excess fiber intake
Difficult to meet energy or nutrient needs
Weight Management ⚠
Fiber supplements don´t have the same health effects as dietary fiber from whole foods
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