1. Anabolism: This is the process of building up complex molecules from simpler ones. It requires energy and is often referred to as "constructive metabolism." Examples include:
* Building proteins from amino acids
* Synthesizing glycogen from glucose
* Forming fats from fatty acids and glycerol
* Building DNA and RNA from nucleotides
2. Catabolism: This is the process of breaking down complex molecules into simpler ones. It releases energy and is often referred to as "destructive metabolism." Examples include:
* Breaking down carbohydrates into glucose
* Breaking down fats into fatty acids and glycerol
* Breaking down proteins into amino acids
* Cellular respiration, where glucose is broken down to produce ATP (energy)
These two processes are interconnected and constantly happening in the body. Anabolism requires the energy produced by catabolism. Think of them as two sides of the same coin, working together to maintain the body's functions.