A-C
Adenosine triphosphate (ATP)
A product of tissue respiration. ATP is the fuel source of cells
and provides immediately available energy for reactions such muscle
contraction.
Amlyase
A digestive enzyme secreted
from the pancreas into the intestine. Amylase breaks down large
starch molecules into its constituent molecules – glucose.
Amino acids
The simplest unit or ‘building block’ of proteins.
There are 20 different amino acids, of which 12 are formed naturally
in the body. The other 8 must be provided in the diet and are called
the essential amino acids.
Antioxidant
A substance that helps ‘mop up’ highly reactive and
potentially damaging chemicals known as free radicals.
Caffeine
A stimulant that prevents fatigue. In some people caffeine can
cause an increased heart rate and restlessness and can be addictive,
although it is not strictly an addictive substance.
Calcium
A mineral that is vital for a large number of functions within
the body. It is the most important mineral constituent of bones.
Carbohydrate
The body’s preferred energy source. Found as simple sugars
(mono and disaccharides such as glucose and sucrose in fruits, biscuits,
cakes) and polysaccharides such as starch and cellulose. Starch
is found in cereals, bread and potatoes.
Chymotrypsin
A digestive enzyme secreted from the pancreas into the intestine.
Chymotrypsin breaks down large protein
molecules into there constituent molecules – amino
acids.
Creatine
An amino acid found in animal products,
especially meat. Creatine provides an ‘emergency’ short-term
(30 –60 seconds) energy source for muscle cells during high-intensity
exercise (e.g. sprinting) in the form of creatine
phosphate. Decreased creatine levels may induce fatigue. Supplements
are marketed for use in sprint sports and weightlifting.
Creatine phosphate (CP)
A fuel source formed by the binding of a phosphate to creatine
in the muscle tissue. CP is a high-energy molecule that acts as
an energy reservoir; it can transfer its high-energy bond to make
ATP.
|
