How would I explain the connection between glucose entering the body and energy created by the body to a friend using my new biochemistry knowledge?

If I was forced to explain the connection of glucose entering the body and energy being created by the body to my friends, I better either have a lot of time, or have a picture to show them. To help simplify this process I may mention the phrase “THROUGH A SERIES OF REACTIONS” often.

To get the ball rolling I would start by explaining that glucose is a carbohydrate in its simplest form called a monosaccharide. From there I would explain that for 1 molecule of glucose we will produce a net gain of approximately 36 ATP molecules each of which can be used by the body when energy is needed. To reach a glucose molecule's potential of 36 ATP the body must use 3 processes. (GlycolysisCitric Acid Cycle, and the Electron Transport Chain)

In glycolysis 1 glucose molecule will go through a series of 10 reactions which will produce 4 ATP molecules via substrate level phosphorylation, and 2NADH2 molecules. In this process glucose subsequently gets converted into 2 pyruvate molecules. To accomplish this task the body had to invest 2 ATP molecules to facilitate the reactions.

An addition 2 ATP will be by the cell to shuttle electrons from 2 NADH2 molecules produced in the cytosol.

In the Citric Acid Cycle each pyruvate molecule will go through a series of reactions and become 2 molecules of Acetyl CoA. Together the molecules will produce 6NADH2, 2 FADH, 2 GTP.

Finally in the Electron transport chain we begin to harness our energy. Each of the 10 NADH2 with produce approximately 3 ATP, totaling 30 ATP. Both FADH2’s will produces approximately 2 ATP, totaling 4 ATP.

10 NADH2 x 3 = 30
2 FADH2 x 2 = 4
2 ATP = 2
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36 ATP