Digestion is the process of breaking down large food molecules into smaller, water-soluble components so that they can be absorbed into the bloodstream. Digestion is important because the body needs nutrients from food and drink to work properly and stay healthy. The digestive system is responsible for breaking down food and drink into nutrients that can be absorbed and used by the body. This process involves mechanical and chemical digestion.
Here are the key points about digestion:
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Mechanical digestion: This refers to the physical breakdown of large pieces of food into smaller pieces which can subsequently be accessed by digestive enzymes.
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Chemical digestion: This involves breaking down food molecules into smaller, water-soluble components using digestive enzymes.
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Nutrient absorption: Once food is broken down into small enough parts, the body can absorb and move the nutrients to where they are needed.
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Organs involved: The digestive system is made up of the gastrointestinal tract (GI tract) or digestive tract, and the liver, pancreas, and gallbladder.
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Steps of digestion: Digestion is separated into four steps: ingestion, digestion, absorption, and elimination.
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Types of nutrients: Nutrients include carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, minerals, and water.
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Digestive process: The digestive process involves movement of food and liquid through the GI tract, breaking food and liquid into smaller parts, or both. Nerves and hormones help control the digestive process.
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Organs of the digestive system: The main organs that make up the digestive system are the mouth, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, pancreas, gallbladder, and liver.
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Waste elimination: The large intestine absorbs water, and the waste products of digestion become stool.
Overall, digestion is a complex process that involves multiple organs and systems, a range of chemicals, and different types of nutrients.
