Chemical digestion

Definition

Chemical digestion is the process by which complex food particles are broken down into smaller, absorbable molecules through the action of enzymes and acids within the digestive system. This biochemical process transforms macronutrients like proteins, fats, and carbohydrates into their component molecules such as amino acids, fatty acids, and simple sugars.

Related terms

Enzymes:

Proteins that catalyze chemical reactions in the body, including those necessary for digesting food.

Absorption:

The process by which nutrients from digested food are taken up into the bloodstream from the intestines.

Macromolecules: Large complex molecules such as proteins, lipids (fats), carbohydrates, and nucleic acids that make up living organisms and are broken down during chemical digestion