Catabolic and Anabolic Pathways: Catabolic pathways break down complex molecules to release energy, while anabolic pathways use energy to synthesize complex molecules from simpler ones, together maintaining metabolic balance.
Ketone Oxidation: Ketone bodies like acetoacetate and beta-hydroxybutyrate are oxidized in peripheral tissues to produce ATP, especially during prolonged fasting or carbohydrate deficiency.
The Breakdown of Fatty Acids: Fatty acids are broken down in the mitochondria through a process called beta-oxidation, generating acetyl-CoA, which enters the citric acid cycle to produce ATP for cellular energy.
Carbon Digestion: Carbohydrate digestion starts in the mouth with salivary amylase and continues in the small intestine with pancreatic enzymes, breaking polysaccharides into monosaccharides like glucose for absorption.
