Carbohydrates || Lipids|| Proteins || Vitamins & Minerals || Fats and Oils
Carbohydrates Carbohydrates are organic compounds composed of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen, typically with a hydrogen-to-oxygen ratio of 2:1. They are one of the primary macronutrients and serve as a significant energy source for living organisms. They also play vital roles in the structure and function of cells. Sources of Carbohydrates Natural Sources: Plants: Grains (wheat, rice, maize), fruits (bananas, apples, mangoes), vegetables (potatoes, carrots), and legumes (lentils, beans). Dairy Products: Milk, yogurt. Sugars: Honey, sugarcane, and fruits. Processed Foods: Bread, pasta, cookies, and other carbohydrate-rich snacks. Functions of Carbohydrates Energy Source: Provide 4 kcal of energy per gram. Protein Sparing: Spare proteins from being used as energy sources. Structural Role: Form structural components like cellulose in plants. Storage: Serve as storage forms of energy (e.g., glycogen in animals and starch in plants). Sweetening Agents: Many ca...