Lipid digestion is a multi-stage process that breaks down fats for absorption, beginning in the mouth and continuing through the stomach and small intestine. Triglycerides are the most common type of fat found in the blood, and the digestion of these and other lipids relies on enzymes called lipases.
Stages of Lipid Digestion
The digestion of lipids happens in three key locations:
- Mouth: Lipid digestion begins in the mouth.
- Stomach: Further digestion continues in the stomach.
- Small Intestine: The majority of lipid digestion takes place in the small intestine. According to the reference, this is where the most significant breakdown occurs.
Role of Lipases
Lipases are crucial enzymes in the digestive process:
- Lipase Function: They break down lipids into smaller molecules that the body can absorb.
In summary, lipid digestion is a sequential process, utilizing enzymes to break down fats.
