Here's a breakdown:
* Carbohydrate Digestion: Complex carbohydrates, like starch, are broken down into simpler sugars like glucose by enzymes called amylases. This process starts in the mouth with salivary amylase and continues in the small intestine with pancreatic amylase.
* Protein Digestion: Proteins are broken down into amino acids by enzymes called proteases. This process also starts in the stomach with pepsin and continues in the small intestine with pancreatic proteases like trypsin and chymotrypsin.
Key Concepts:
* Enzymes: Biological catalysts that speed up chemical reactions.
* Hydrolysis: The chemical process that breaks down molecules by adding water. Digestion is primarily hydrolysis.
In summary: Digestion is a complex process involving various enzymes that break down complex food molecules into simpler units that can be absorbed by the body.
