What is the function of digestive enzymes?

Digestive enzymes are biological catalysts that act like tiny molecular scissors, breaking down the complex molecules in food we eat into simpler ones that our bodies can easily absorb and use for energy and cell building.  These enzymes are produced by various organs throughout the digestive system, including the salivary glands, stomach, pancreas, and small intestine. 

Here's a closer look at their function:

• Specific Targets: Different digestive enzymes target specific nutrients. For example, amylase breaks down carbohydrates, lipase handles fats, and proteases like pepsin and trypsin tackle proteins.
• Chemical Breakdown: By breaking down these complex molecules into smaller subunits, digestive enzymes make them easier to be absorbed by the small intestine into the bloodstream.
• Nutrient Absorption: Once absorbed, these smaller molecules can be transported throughout the body and used by cells for various functions.

In essence, digestive enzymes play a critical role in unlocking the hidden potential within our food, turning it into the building blocks our bodies need to function properly.

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