This educational video from the Institute of Human Anatomy offers a comprehensive 21-minute exploration of carbohydrate metabolism in the human body. Dive into the science behind different types of carbohydrates, from simple sugars to complex polysaccharides, and learn how they're processed through digestion, absorption, and utilization. Discover the truth about controversial topics like high fructose corn syrup, the difference between "good" and "bad" carbs, and whether carbohydrates inevitably lead to fat storage or serve as essential fuel. The content systematically breaks down the molecular structure of carbohydrates, explains the enzymatic processes involved in their digestion, clarifies the liver's role in processing different sugars, and examines how exercise affects carbohydrate metabolism. Perfect for nutrition students, fitness enthusiasts, or anyone seeking evidence-based information about how carbohydrates actually function in the body beyond popular diet culture narratives.
Overview
Syllabus
0:00 - Intro: Jonathan Explores the Carbohydrate Conundrum
0:17 - Carbs Demystified: Unveiling the Different Types
1:40 - Monosaccharides, Disaccharides & Polysaccharides: A Molecular Breakdown
3:36 - The Ultimate Fate of Carbs: From Food to Fuel
3:58 - Hydration: A Vital Partner
5:35 - Digestion 101: How Your Body Breaks Down Carbs
7:27 - Enzyme Action: Sucrase, Lactase, and the Breakdown Crew
8:30 - Complex vs. Simple: Understanding Release Rates
9:37 - Absorption: Glucose, Fructose, and Galactose Enter the Bloodstream
10:35 - The Liver's Crucial Role: Fructose & Galactose Conversion to Glucose
11:42 - High Fructose Corn Syrup: Villain or Misunderstood?
12:01 - Table Sugar vs. Superfood Glucose?
12:35 - Simple Sugars: When They Help, When They Hinder
13:43 - The Calorie Connection: Sugar, Weight Gain, and Health Risks
14:44 - Carb Storage Explained: Glycogen, Fat, and the Impact of Exercise
19:48 - Final Thoughts!
Taught by
Institute of Human Anatomy
