Enzymes are super important for breaking down big food particles so our bodies can use them. Here's how they work:
Carbohydrates: Enzymes like amylase, which we find in saliva, start breaking down starch into simpler sugars. Then, in the small intestine, other enzymes like maltase help turn maltose into glucose. Our bodies can easily absorb glucose into the bloodstream.
Proteins: The process of digesting proteins begins in the stomach. Here, an enzyme called pepsin breaks proteins into smaller pieces called peptides. When the food moves to the small intestine, enzymes like trypsin split these peptides into amino acids. Amino acids are important for muscle repair and making other enzymes.
Fats: Enzymes called lipases take care of fats. One type, called lingual lipase, works in the mouth, while another, called pancreatic lipase, operates in the small intestine. These enzymes break down fats called triglycerides into fatty acids and glycerol. This is important for storing energy and keeping our cell membranes healthy.
This entire process of enzymes is really important for getting nutrients from our food and staying healthy!
Enzymes are super important for breaking down big food particles so our bodies can use them. Here's how they work:
Carbohydrates: Enzymes like amylase, which we find in saliva, start breaking down starch into simpler sugars. Then, in the small intestine, other enzymes like maltase help turn maltose into glucose. Our bodies can easily absorb glucose into the bloodstream.
Proteins: The process of digesting proteins begins in the stomach. Here, an enzyme called pepsin breaks proteins into smaller pieces called peptides. When the food moves to the small intestine, enzymes like trypsin split these peptides into amino acids. Amino acids are important for muscle repair and making other enzymes.
Fats: Enzymes called lipases take care of fats. One type, called lingual lipase, works in the mouth, while another, called pancreatic lipase, operates in the small intestine. These enzymes break down fats called triglycerides into fatty acids and glycerol. This is important for storing energy and keeping our cell membranes healthy.
This entire process of enzymes is really important for getting nutrients from our food and staying healthy!