We, humans, are the most complex species on Earth. We perform lots of work which is possible only because all our systems of the body work smoothly. But suddenly a question arises: How do we get energy? What tips can you follow to remain highly energetic for both shorter and longer runs?
As we all know, not only us humans but the simple organisms eat food too. In simpler words, we say food is the source of energy. But is food the only source of energy? If not, then what are the other sources of energy in living beings apart from conventional food? Let's discuss these in detail. Food is the substance which provides us nutrition through compounds which are essential for various metabolic processes. Now coming to the 2nd question, are there any alternatives to food? The answer to this question is present in the definition itself. Anything which provides us energy comes under the category of food. So we already understood what food is. Now moving forward, how does food provide us with energy? There comes the role of digestion. Digestion, in different organisms, occurs according to their body organisation as well as various other factors. In bacteria, it is simple, while in us humans, it is very much complex and requires a mechanical and chemical approach. In digestion, various enzymes are involved which act on their respective substrates. But in the whole long complex process, where do we get energy? Actually, digestion plays a key role in getting energy. First, we need to break down the food and then we can utilise it. We can’t directly absorb any substances. It is highly essential to break every large molecule into simple molecules so that they can be absorbed and further be used as a source of energy.
How do broken molecules provide energy?
Now, after the food is digested and absorbed, it can be utilized in the process of respiration. Respiration is a process which is used to release energy in all living organisms. In some, it releases very less amount of energy, while in others it releases comparative higher amount. But why does the amount of energy released differ so much? We will answer this question later. But first lets see what happens in respiration. During the process of digestion, all the food carbohydrates are converted into glucose, as glucose is the most favoured substrate for energy in respiration while proteins & fats enter later in stages.
Respiration involves glycolysis, Krebs cycle & electron transport system. Now, coming back to our previous question of wide energy output variations in respiration. In some organisms, only glycolysis takes place while in most organisms all the process of respiration take place. But why is that? The reason is oxygen. Those organisms who are aerobic (can’t survive without oxygen) perform all the steps while in anaerobic organisms, only glycolysis and fermentation take place.
Now, where does the energy go after respiration? Energy is released in our body and stored in the form of ATP, which is used as energy currency anytime when required.
Well, respiration & digestion involve many steps and it is not possible to cover all of them in one blog. If you want detailed on these topics, let us know in the comments! Also, don’t forget to follow us on social media platforms, so you never miss any updates from us! And finally, share this blog with your family members & friends, so they get to learn something new!
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