"Unleash the Power of Carbohydrate Metabolism"

Carbohydrates are one of the three macronutrients that make up our diet, along with protein and fat. They are found in a wide variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, grains, and sugars. Carbohydrates provide energy to the body by being converted into glucose, which is used by our cells to produce energy. However, when we consume more carbohydrates than our bodies need, the excess can be converted into fat and stored in the body. 

The process of converting carbohydrates into fat is known as de novo lipogenesis (DNL). DNL is the process by which the body converts excess carbohydrates into fatty acids, which are then stored in the form of triglycerides in adipose tissue (fat cells). This process occurs primarily in the liver, and occurs when the body's energy needs are met and there is an excess of glucose in the bloodstream. 

When we consume carbohydrates, they are broken down into glucose in the small intestine by enzymes. Glucose is then absorbed into the bloodstream and transported to cells (Red Blood Cells) throughout the body to be used as an energy source.  

The total amount of glucose that can be held in all the red blood cells in a human body varies depending on various factors such as body size, weight, and overall health. On average, a healthy adult human body contains about 5 to 6 liters of blood, which translates to about 5 to 6 kilograms of blood. With each red blood cell holding approximately 330 to 660 milligrams of glucose, the total amount of glucose held in all red blood cells can range from 1.65 to 4.96 grams.  However, when the body's energy needs are met, and there is an excess of glucose in the bloodstream, the liver converts the excess glucose into glycogen through glycogenesis. 

Glycogen is a complex carbohydrate that can be stored in the liver and muscles. However, when the glycogen stores are full, the liver then converts the excess glucose into fatty acids through DNL. These fatty acids are then transported to adipose tissue, where they are stored as triglycerides. 

The rate of DNL can be influenced by a number of factors, including insulin levels, the type of carbohydrates consumed, and the presence of other nutrients such as protein and fat. Insulin is a hormone that regulates the metabolism of carbohydrates and helps to control the rate of DNL. When insulin levels are high, DNL is suppressed, and glucose is directed towards glycogenesis. However, when insulin levels are low, DNL is increased, and glucose is directed towards the conversion to fatty acids. 

The type of carbohydrates consumed also affect the rate of DNL. Simple carbohydrates, such as sugar and white flour, are quickly broken down into glucose and can lead to high insulin levels, which can increase the rate of DNL. Complex carbohydrates, such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, are broken down more slowly and can lead to lower insulin levels, which can decrease the rate of DNL. 

Additionally, consuming a diet high in carbohydrates can lead to an overproduction of insulin, which can lead to insulin resistance. Insulin resistance is a condition in which the body's cells do not respond properly to insulin, leading to high blood sugar levels. This can eventually lead to type 2 diabetes, which is characterized by high blood sugar levels and the body's inability to properly use insulin. 

Protein and fat can also play a role in the rate of DNL. Consuming protein and fat along with carbohydrates can slow the digestion of carbohydrates, leading to lower insulin levels, and decreasing the rate of DNL. In addition, a diet high in protein and moderate in fat can lead to an increase in muscle mass and a decrease in body fat. 

The process of converting carbohydrates into fat, known as de novo lipogenesis (DNL) can occur when the body's energy needs are met and there is an excess of glucose in the bloodstream. The rate of DNL can be influenced by a number of factors, including insulin levels, the type of carbohydrates consumed, and the presence of other nutrients such as protein and fat. To avoid the conversion of carbohydrates into fat, it is important to consume a balanced diet that includes a moderate amount of carbohydrates, adequate protein 

Author

David J. Bauder, PA-C David Bauder, PA-C, is a certified physician assistant and the assistant medical director at Weight Loss and Vitality in Manassas and Alexandria, Virginia, Washington, DC; and Gaithersburg, MD. He enjoys helping patients optimize their physical and mental health to improve their overall well-being. He earned his physician assistant degree from the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio. Afterward, he gained admission into the reputable graduate program for physician assistant studies at the University of Nebraska Health Science Center in Omaha. David has over 26 years of experience working as a physician assistant. He’s practiced in podiatry, family medicine, emergency medicine, general surgery, urgent care, and functional medicine.