Digestion is the process where your body breaks down food into smaller parts that it can absorb. This happens as food moves through your gastrointestinal (GI) tract.
The Journey of Digestion
Here's how the digestion process unfolds:
- Starting in the Mouth: Digestion begins the moment you start chewing. This breaks down food into smaller pieces.
- Traveling Through the GI Tract: The food then moves through the GI tract.
- Mixing with Digestive Juices: As food makes its way through the GI tract, it mixes with digestive juices. These juices are essential because they contain enzymes that help to break down the food further.
- Breaking Down Large Molecules: The digestive juices help to break down large food molecules into smaller molecules that the body can absorb and use.
- End in the Small Intestine: The process of digestion is complete when the food reaches the small intestine.
Summary of the Digestive Process
| Stage | Description |
|---|---|
| Mouth | Chewing begins the physical breakdown of food. |
| GI Tract | Food moves through and mixes with digestive juices. |
| Small Intestine | Final stage of digestion; food molecules are broken down into smaller, absorbable molecules. |
Key Points of Digestion
- Digestion is a mechanical and chemical process.
- It starts in your mouth and ends in your small intestine.
- Digestive juices contain enzymes that are critical for breaking down food.
- The purpose of digestion is to break down food so your body can absorb the nutrients.
