The Role of Carbohydrates in Maintaining Health and Physiological Functions of the Organism.

Carbohydrates play a critical role in the bioenergetics of the body, providing the primary source of fuel for metabolic processes. Glucose, obtained from carbohydrates, is the main substrate for aerobic metabolism, facilitating the release of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) through oxidative phosphorylation in the mitochondria.1

Carbohydrates are also important for maintaining the microbiome of the gastrointestinal tract. Prebiotics, which are insoluble in digestive juices, serve as substrates for beneficial bacteria, supporting their growth and function. This interrelated mechanism contributes to the balanced state of the intestinal microflora, which has a direct relationship with immune regulation and inflammatory processes in the body.2

Furthermore, recent studies confirm the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of some carbohydrates, such as polyphenols and dietary fibers, found in fruits, vegetables, and whole grain products. These components have the ability to reduce oxidative stress and suppress the production of cytokines, which may lead to a decreased risk of chronic inflammatory diseases.3,4

Moreover, carbohydrates, especially those rich in B-group vitamins, can have a positive impact on neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, which is associated with improved mood and mental well-being.5

Finally, complex carbohydrates found in vegetables, fruits, and whole grain products are sources of important nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals, necessary for the normal functioning of organs and body systems.In conclusion, carbohydrates play an indispensable role in maintaining the physiological functions of the body, including energy metabolism, gastrointestinal microbiota health, inflammation reduction, mental well-being, and overall health. These scientific findings underscore the importance of integrating a variety of carbohydrates into the diet to maintain optimal health.

References:

1. Holesh JE, Aslam S, Martin A. Physiology, Carbohydrates. 2023 May 12. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan–. PMID: 29083823.

2. Mora-Flores LP, Moreno-Terrazas Casildo R, Fuentes-Cabrera J, Pérez-Vicente HA, de Anda-Jáuregui G, Neri-Torres EE. The Role of Carbohydrate Intake on the Gut Microbiome: A Weight of Evidence Systematic Review. Microorganisms. 2023 Jun 30;11(7):1728. doi: 10.3390/microorganisms11071728. PMID: 37512899; PMCID: PMC10385781.

3. Al-Khayri JM, Sahana GR, Nagella P, Joseph BV, Alessa FM, Al-Mssallem MQ. Flavonoids as Potential Anti-Inflammatory Molecules: A Review. Molecules. 2022 May 2;27(9):2901. doi: 10.3390/molecules27092901. PMID: 35566252; PMCID: PMC9100260.

4. Ludwig DS, Hu FB, Tappy L, Brand-Miller J. Dietary carbohydrates: role of quality and quantity in chronic disease. BMJ. 2018 Jun 13;361:k2340. doi: 10.1136/bmj.k2340. PMID: 29898880; PMCID: PMC5996878.

5. Kennedy DO. B Vitamins and the Brain: Mechanisms, Dose and Efficacy--A Review. Nutrients. 2016 Jan 27;8(2):68. doi: 10.3390/nu8020068. PMID: 26828517; PMCID: PMC4772032.