What primary fuel sources can be used in aerobic metabolism?

Aerobic metabolism primarily relies on carbohydrates, fats, and proteins as fuel sources. This metabolic pathway occurs in the presence of oxygen and is essential for sustaining prolonged physical activities.

Carbohydrates are a key energy source, as they can be quickly converted into glucose, the primary substrate for aerobic energy production. Once in the bloodstream, glucose can be used directly by cells to generate ATP through processes like glycolysis and oxidative phosphorylation.

Fats serve as a significant energy source, especially during lower-intensity exercise. They are stored in the body as triglycerides and can be mobilized and broken down into fatty acids, which then enter the aerobic metabolic pathways to produce ATP.

Proteins can also be utilized for energy, but to a lesser extent compared to carbohydrates and fats. In situations where carbohydrate stores are low, such as during extended periods of exercise or fasting, the body can deaminate amino acids from proteins to be converted to glucose or used directly in the Krebs cycle.

The other options include components that are either not primary fuel sources in aerobic metabolism or do not fit the physiological context. For instance, while alcohols can be metabolized, they are not a primary fuel source. Similarly, DNA is not a source of energy in aerobic metabolism, nor