Question

Metabolism is a source of water.

(a) True

(b) False

This question was addressed to me during an interview.

I'd like to ask this question from Water, Carbohydrates and Dietary Fibre-1 in chapter Water, Carbohydrates and Dietary Fibre of Food Engineering

Answer 1

The correct answer is:

(a) True

Metabolism, specifically the oxidation of nutrients in the body (especially carbohydrates, fats, and proteins), is a significant source of water. When nutrients are metabolized for energy, water is produced as a byproduct in a process known as metabolic water. This water contributes to the body's total water balance.

For example:

• The oxidation of 1 gram of carbohydrates can produce approximately 0.55 grams of water.
• The oxidation of 1 gram of fat produces about 1.07 grams of water.

Thus, metabolism plays an important role in the body's water supply, particularly during physical activity or in conditions where water intake might be low.