Functions Of Carbohydrates

In every morsel of food are vitamins, minerals nutrients, and calories that allow our bodies to function properly. Examples of these macronutrients that need to be consumed include: carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, vitamins and mineral. To begin, carbohydrates serve many functions in the body. There are many types of carbohydrates. There are simple carbs, complex carbs, refines unrefined carbs, starch and fiber. Everything that we ingest is broken down; simple carbohydrates are carbohydrates in the smallest form. Simple carbohydrates, or simple sugars, are commonly referred to as monosaccharaides (glucose, fructose, and galactose) or disaccharides, which are 2 simple carbs placed together. Cells use glucose to provide energy for cells through

The bad fats are trans fatty acids. Trans fatty acids are created and are saturated fats meaning they have no carbon double bonds. Diets high in saturated fats increase the risk of heart disease. Foods to avoid would are beef, butter, and lard. The good fats are unsaturated fats. These are commonly called monosaturated fats, and polysaturated fats. Diets high in unsaturated fats are, “associated with a lower risk of heart disease” (p.137) Monosaturated fats can been found in avocados, olive and canola oil. Polysaturated fats such as linoleic and alpha-linolenic acid are essential fatty acids because the body is not able to produce them, as described, “they are needed for the formation of the phosopholipid that give cell membranes their structure and functional properties.”(p.138) Cholesterol is needed to, “synthesize other sterols, including vitamin d; bile acids, which are emulsifiers in bile; cortisol, which is a hormone that regulates our physiological response to stress; and testosterone and estrogen, which are hormones necessary reproduction.” (p.140) I am pleased to mention that I met all the requirements for fatty acids and

Sodium is, “ important in maintain fluid balance and allowing nerve impulses to travel throughout our bodies, signaling the activities that are essential for life.”(p. 269) Since sodium governs fluid retention it is crucial that is not over consumed. Too much sodium increases fluid retention and the increase fluid volume in the body increase blood pressure or hypertension. Hypertension is a serious condition because it can lead to heart attack, heart failure, and kidney failure. It is vital that people prone to hypertension through genetics or environment maintain a low sodium diet. A DASH diet should be followed and try to stay away from processed food. Conversely insufficient amount of sodium lead to altered mental status, muscle cramps, and loss of appetite. (p.277) Salt alternative such as lemon or lime juice, basil, or garlic may be used as a flavor replacement. Ways to increase electrolyte intake can be done by electrolyte enhanced juices like