Catabolism

Catabolism is a biochemical process in which complex molecules in the body are broken down into simpler ones to release energy.

This process is necessary to maintain basic life functions such as respiration, circulation, and muscle work.

Catabolism can be divided into three main phases:

1. Breaking down large molecules, such as proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, into smaller components.
2. Processing these smaller components into universal energy carriers, such as acetyl-CoA.
3. Production of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) – the universal energy currency of the cell, through the oxidation of acetyl-CoA in the Krebs cycle and respiratory chain.

Catabolism in the context of a ketogenic diet

On a ketogenic diet, ketone bodies become the primary energy source instead of glucose. This state is called ketosis and is characterized by the following changes in catabolic processes:

• Reduced insulin levels promote the mobilization of fats from fat stores.
• Fats are broken down into fatty acids and glycerol, and then into acetyl-CoA, which can enter the Krebs cycle or be converted into ketone bodies.
• Ketone bodies serve as an alternative energy source for the brain and other organs when blood glucose levels are low.

Thus, catabolism on a ketogenic diet shifts from carbohydrate utilization to fat utilization, which is a key feature of this dietary approach.

Advantages and disadvantages

The advantages of a ketogenic diet in the context of catabolism include potential weight management improvement and reduced risk of some chronic diseases.

However, transitioning to ketosis requires careful monitoring and may be accompanied by side effects such as headaches, fatigue, and a fruity breath odor.

It is important to understand that a ketogenic diet is not just a fad diet but a significant intervention in the body’s normal catabolic pathway, and it is recommended to consult with a specialist before starting it.