The Process of Metabolism!!

The body is taking in food that contains glucose.

Now the body is distributing the free glucose.

The glucose is now being stored to be used if needed in the future.

Step 1: Plants and Photosynthesis

1. Plants go through photosynthesis (absorb energy from the sun.)

2. Then…we eat those plants and now we have that energy.

3. The body then breaks down the sugars into energy which is distributed and used as fuel by the body cells.

Step 2: Distribution

After food is eaten enzymes in the digestive system break proteins down into amino acids, fats are broken into fatty acids,

and carbohydrates into simple sugars.

Step 3: Storage

Now the body goes through Anabolism and Catabolism which decides whether the

energy is stored for future use or used to fuel the body.

Anabolic N Catabolic

Anabolic: “Constructive Metabolism”• Supports growth of new

cells• Maintains body tissus

• Stores energy for future use.

small molecules are turned into LARGE ones.

Catabolic:“Destructive Metabolism”• Produces energy for all

cell activity.• Large molecules are

broken down to Release EnergyRelease Energy.

• Provides fuel for anabolismProvides fuel for anabolism

• Heats the bodyHeats the body

• Allows body to move and Allows body to move and muscle contraction.muscle contraction.

• Releases waste products

LARGE molecules are broken to small ones.

Control of Metabolism

The Endocrine System:Hormones within the endocrine

system control the rate and direction of metabolism.

• Thyroxine: hormone produced and released thyroid gland. It determines how fast or slow metabolism is in a persons

body.