The Molecules of Living Systems

Athletes carefully monitor what they consume to match what their bodies are using in the processes of growth and repair. Their diet should contain the right balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. Each item of food is important in ensuring that the dietary needs imposed on their bodies are met.

In this lesson, you will learn about the important organic molecules that play a wide variety of roles in the body's daily activities. In addition, you will learn about important proteins called enzymes that control the different chemical reactions taking place within your cells.

In this lesson, the following questions will be examined:

• What are the chemical characteristics of carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins and their corresponding enzymes?
  
• How are digestive enzyme functions controlled by the internal environment?