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is primarily carried out by the enzyme amylase. Amylase breaks down starches into simpler sugars such as maltose and glucose, which can then be absorbed by the intestinal lining and transported into the bloodstream for energy production and other cellular processes.
Most chemical digestion takes place in the small intestine, specifically in the duodenum. Enzymes released by the pancreas and bile from the liver help break down food molecules into nutrients that can be absorbed by the body.
Most of the chemical digestion in humans takes place in the small intestine. Here, enzymes break down food into nutrients that can be absorbed by the body. The small intestine is lined with villi and microvilli that increase the surface area for absorption.
The digestion that occurs in the large intestine is mainly caused by the action of gut bacteria. These bacteria help break down and ferment undigested food particles, producing essential nutrients and gases like methane and hydrogen. This process also plays a role in the absorption of water and electrolytes.
Starch digestion primarily takes place in the mouth and small intestine. In the mouth, the enzyme amylase breaks down starch into smaller glucose units. Further breakdown and absorption of glucose occur in the small intestine with the help of other digestive enzymes.
The esophagus connects to the stomach, allowing food to pass from the throat to the stomach for digestion. The small intestine is connected to the stomach, where further digestion of food and absorption of nutrients takes place. The pancreas and liver also play important roles in digestion by secreting enzymes and bile into the small intestine to aid in the breakdown of food.