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Why Do We Need Carbohydrates? exam Flashcards

Why Do We Need Carbohydrates? exam
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  • What percentage of daily energy intake should come from carbohydrates according to the AMDR?

    45-65% of daily energy intake should come from carbohydrates.
  • Ketoacidosis

    A dangerous condition where excessive ketone production lowers blood pH, making it too acidic.
  • Why are carbohydrates considered a preferred energy source during high-intensity exercise?

    Because their breakdown is quick and can occur without oxygen, providing rapid energy.
  • Gluconeogenesis

    The process of generating glucose from non-carbohydrate sources, such as proteins.
  • What is the main energy source for red blood cells?

    Glucose is the exclusive energy source for red blood cells.
  • Acceptable Macronutrient Distribution Range (AMDR)

    A guideline recommending the percentage of daily calories that should come from each macronutrient.
  • How do carbohydrates help prevent ketoacidosis?

    By providing enough glucose, they reduce the need for ketone production from fat breakdown.
  • What happens to protein use in the body when carbohydrate intake is very low?

    Proteins are used for energy, reducing their availability for vital functions.
  • Ketosis

    A normal physiological state where the body breaks down fat into ketones for energy when carbohydrates are low.
  • Why is it important to spare proteins from being used as an energy source?

    Proteins are needed for critical functions like making enzymes, hormones, and antibodies.
  • What is the primary energy source for the brain under normal conditions?

    Glucose is the primary energy source for the brain.
  • How does exercise intensity affect the body's use of carbohydrates and fats for energy?

    Higher intensity increases carbohydrate use; lower intensity favors fat use.
  • Carbohydrates

    Essential macronutrients that provide quick energy and support various bodily functions.
  • What is the effect of excessive ketone accumulation in the blood?

    It can lower blood pH, leading to ketoacidosis.
  • Why can't you lose significant weight by burning fat while at rest?

    Because total energy expenditure is low, so the absolute amount of fat burned is small.
  • What is the role of carbohydrates in protein sparing?

    They provide energy so proteins can be used for their primary functions instead of energy.
  • What happens to blood pH during ketoacidosis?

    Blood pH decreases, becoming more acidic.
  • Why do nutrition experts recommend a high percentage of carbohydrates in the diet?

    Because carbohydrates are a major energy source and support overall health.
  • What alternative fuel can the brain use when glucose is low?

    Ketones can serve as an alternative fuel for the brain.
  • What is the main difference between fat and carbohydrate metabolism during exercise?

    Fat metabolism is slower and requires oxygen; carbohydrate metabolism is faster and can occur without oxygen.
  • How do carbohydrates contribute to energy balance?

    They provide a readily available source of energy, especially during high activity.
  • What is the consequence of prolonged low carbohydrate intake on body proteins?

    Proteins are broken down for energy, reducing their availability for other functions.
  • Why are carbohydrates essential for red blood cell function?

    Red blood cells rely exclusively on glucose for energy.
  • What is the AMDR for carbohydrates?

    45-65% of total daily energy intake.
  • How do carbohydrates help maintain normal blood pH?

    By preventing excessive ketone production, they help keep blood pH within normal range.
  • What is the impact of low carbohydrate diets on the body's energy sources?

    The body increases fat and protein breakdown for energy, leading to ketosis and possible protein loss.
  • What is the preferred energy source for the body at rest?

    Fats are the preferred energy source at rest or during low-intensity activity.
  • How do carbohydrates support overall health?

    They provide energy, prevent ketoacidosis, spare proteins, and offer health benefits, especially as fiber.
  • What is the relationship between exercise intensity and carbohydrate use?

    As exercise intensity increases, the body relies more on carbohydrates for energy.