In a nutshell...
• The body uses a variety of small molecules (amino acids, fatty acids,
glucose) for its metabolic needs. Food is mechanically and chemically
broken down into these molecules during digestion, after which they can be
taken up by body cells through the separate process of absorption.
• Food travels in a one-way path from mouth to esophagus to stomach to
small intestine to large intestine to anus.
• Organs and structures in the digestive system are specialized for specific
functions in digestion.
• Digestive enzymes are specific hydrolytic enzymes that have a preferred
temperature and pH.
• Proper nutrition is necessary to health