glucose
3.2 | Carbohydrates By the end of this section, you will be able to: Discuss the role of carbohydrates in cells and in the extracellular materials of animals and plants Explain the classifications of carbohydrates List common monosaccharides, disaccharides, and polysaccharides Most people are familiar with carbohydrates, one type of macromolecule, especially when it comes to what we eat. To lose weight, some individuals adhere to low-carb diets. Athletes, in contrast, often carb-load before important competitions to ensure that they have enough energy to compete at a high level. Carbohydrates are, in fact, an essential part of our diet; grains, fruits, and vegetables are all natural sources of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates provide energy to the body, particularly through glucose, a simple sugar that is a component of starch and an ingredient in many staple foods. Carbohydrates also have other important functions in humans, animals, and plants.