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Functions of Carbohydrates

When it comes to the functions of Carbohydrates, let’s start with the basics. Carbohydrates, one of the essential macronutrients in our diet, are not merely a source of energy but multifaceted molecules with a wide array of functions in biology. Beyond their role as the body’s primary energy source, carbohydrates serve as integral components in cellular structures, playing crucial roles in cell recognition, signaling, and adhesion. In addition to these structural functions, carbohydrates are involved in immune response regulation and serve as storage forms of energy. From the simplest sugars to the most complex polysaccharides, carbohydrates are indispensable players in the intricate web of life, contributing to the functionality and diversity of biological systems in ways that extend far beyond mere fuel for the body. This article delves into the multifunctional nature of carbohydrates, unraveling the many roles they play in sustaining life and health.

illustration used to show the functions of carbohydrates
  1. Carbohydrates provides energy and regulation of blood glucose.
  2. It will prevent the degradation of skeletal muscle and other tissues such as the heart, liver, and kidneys.
  3. It prevent the breakdown of proteins for energy.
  4. Carbohydrates also help with fat metabolism. If the body has enough energy for its immediate needs, it stores extra energy as fat.
  5. Carbohydrates are an important component of many industries like textile, paper, lacquers and breweries.
  6. Detoxification of physiological importance is carried out to some extent with carbohydrate derivatives.
  7. Agar is polysaccharide used in culture media, laxative and food.
  8. Carbohydrates form a part of genetic material like DNA and RNA in the form of deoxyribose and ribose sugars.
  9. Hyaluronic acid found in between joints acts as synovial fluid and provides frictionless movement.
  10. They help make up the body mass by being included in all the parts of the cell and tissues.
  11. Adequate storage of hepatic glycogen helps in detoxifying a normal liver.
  12. They form components of bio-molecules which have a key role in blood clotting, immunity, fertilization etc.
  13. Carbohydrates is basically the main fibre of the diet or provide the bulk fibre for better digestion.
  14. Carbohydrates help clear gut and prevent constipation.
  15. Starch is the form the food is stored in plants.
  16. It provides sweetness to foods.
  17. Pectine and Hemiceliulose are the structural carbohydrate in plant cell walls.
  18. It plays important roles in cellular recognition processes.
  19. Chitin forms the cell wall of fungi and the outer schelitone of insects.
  20. Murine is a structural carbohydrate in bacterial cell wall.

Read more about Monosaccharides

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the function of glucose?

Glucose is the main source of energy in the human body. It is metabolized to release energy that is used to carry out various cellular processes. Glucose is the exclusive fuel of brain cells which cannot survive without it.

How carbohydrates are stored in animals?

Carbohydrates are stored in animals in the form of glycogen. Glycogen is a polymer of glucose molecules and is found only in animals.

What are the 4 functions of carbohydrates?

They act as a source of energy. They are involved in cell signaling. They act as structural components in the cell. They prevent protein breakdown for energy.

What are the functions of polysaccharides?

Polysaccharides act as storage molecules in both animal and plant cells. They also provide structural support such as cellulose and have a role in cell signaling.

Reference

Carbohydrate digestion