Digestion is the process of breaking down food into smaller molecules that the body can absorb and use for energy, growth, and repair. It involves both mechanical and chemical processes.
Mechanical Digestion
This involves the physical breakdown of food. Examples include:
- Chewing in the mouth
- Churning in the stomach
Chemical Digestion
This involves using enzymes to break down food into smaller molecules that can be absorbed into the bloodstream. The main macronutrients that require digestion are:
- Fats: Broken down into fatty acids and glycerol.
- Carbohydrates: Broken down into simple sugars like glucose.
- Proteins: Broken down into amino acids.
Without digestion, the body would not be able to extract essential nutrients from the food we eat. These nutrients are then used to power various bodily functions.
