Metabolism is the set of all biochemical reactions that occur in the body, divided into two forms: anabolism and catabolism.
The regulation of metabolism varies according to the characteristics of each individual such as: weight, age, sex and physical activities performed.
The proper functioning of our body depends on the correct balance and integration between anabolism and catabolism.
Anabolism
Anabolism comprises the reactions that form complex molecules from simpler ones, using energy.
In short, anabolism is the set of synthesis or construction reactions.
Examples
An example of anabolism is protein synthesis from amino acids.
People aiming to gain weight or muscle mass should encourage anabolism. This can be done with physical exercise and consumption of energy foods.
In this way, the body receives a good amount of energy to carry out anabolic processes, such as muscle building.
When the energy supply is low, the body carries out catabolism.
Another example of anabolism is the photosynthesis that occurs in vegetables. In this process, plants obtain glucose from CO
2 (carbon dioxide) and H2O (water).Anabolic reactions require the supply of energy produced during catabolism.
catabolism
Catabolism encompasses all reactions in which complex organic compounds are converted into simpler molecules.
Thus, catabolism boils down to degradation or breakdown reactions.
Examples
An example of catabolism is the digestion, where the foods that have been consumed are broken down and transformed into simpler substances.
In addition, there is energy production. When consuming starch, a polysaccharide, it is broken down into glucose, a simpler and more energetic molecule.
Meanwhile, the proteins are degraded in amino acids, which will be used in anabolic processes in the body.
THE cellular respiration it is also a catabolic process, because during reactions, the bonds between molecules are broken, releasing energy.
understand more about Biochemistry.
Main differences between anabolism and catabolism
Learn about the main differences between anabolism and catabolism:
| Anabolism | catabolism |
|---|---|
| synthesis reactions | Degradation reactions |
| consumes energy | Produces energy |
| Production of complex molecules such as proteins | Production of simple molecules such as amino acids |
| Examples: protein synthesis and photosynthesis | Examples: digestion and cell respiration |
Learn more about metabolism, read also:
- Metabolism
- energy metabolism
- Cell Metabolism
