Why We Need Digestive Enzymes

The digestive system has two different functions: to break down foods into smaller chemical components and then to digest them. Nutrients can be classified into carbohydrates, proteins and lipids, which are then broken down into sugars, amino acids and fatty acids before they can be absorbed. Without the digestive enzymes, these nutrients are unable to be broken down and thus, not absorbed, which can lead to diarrhea and malnutrition.

Definition

Enzymes are proteins that are designed to help speed up certain biological processes. Digestive enzymes break down foods into smaller components.

Purpose

When foods are eaten, they are generally present in molecules that are too large to be absorbed by the small intestine. As a result, digestive enzymes are necessary to break down larger food molecules into smaller components that can be picked up by the digestive system.

In Saliva

Human saliva contains a digestive enzyme called amylase, which breaks starch down into smaller sugars. It is needed to help initiate the digestive process.

In the Stomach

The primary digestive enzyme in the stomach is called trypsin, which is responsible for breaking down proteins from food.

In the Pancreas

The pancreas, the major producer of digestive enzymes, will secrete large quantities of enzymes that will break down sugars, proteins and fats into smaller components.

References

• DIgestive Enzymes