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Metabolism

***Under construction***

Metabolism is the sum of all biochemical processes of the body, including those that involve the breakdown of molecules (catabolism) and the building of new ones (anabolism).

Catabolism serve to capture chemical energy, usually as ATP, through the degradation of energy-rich molecules such as carbohydrates or proteins into a few simple molecules, including carbon dioxide, ammonia, urea, and water. These are often oxidative processes.

Anabolism is a divergent process, as a few simple building blocks are used to form a wide variety of complex polymeric products that may be stored as energy for future use. These reactions require energy, usually generated by the breakdown of ATP. Anabolic reactions are often reductive processes.

Maintaining blood sugar levels is a fundamental cause for metabolism.

Appetite can be healthy, too much, or not enough.

Following digestion and absorption in the gastrointestinal system, molecules make their way to various tissues and are processed for energy production or for storage.

Important Tissues in Metabolism

The liver is a key site of processing, storage, and synthesis of molecules
The pancreas produces and releases insulin and glucagon, two of the most important metabolic hormones
Fat
Muscle, due to its high energy demands, maintains its own energy stores
The brain is an important user of energy

Metabolic Molecules

carbohydrates
fats
proteins
vitamins
energy molecules

Metabolic Hormones