There are several types of chemical substances that are broken down in chemical digestion. Two common types of substances are proteins and carbohydrates.
1. Proteins: Proteins are complex molecules made up of amino acids that are assembled in specific sequences. Proteins are broken down into their constituent amino acids by enzymes called proteases. The ideal pH range for most proteases is 4-5, and the ideal temperature is around 37°C. The final products of protein digestion are individual amino acids, which are absorbed into the bloodstream and used to build new proteins or converted into glucose for energy. Proteases play a crucial role in digestion by breaking down large protein molecules into smaller, more absorbable fragments. Without proteases, the body would not be able to extract the necessary amino acids from protein sources.
2. Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates are a diverse group of organic compounds that include simple sugars, starches, and cellulose. Carbohydrates are broken down into their constituent sugar molecules by enzymes known as amylases. The ideal pH range for amylases is 4-5, and the ideal temperature is around 37°C. The final products of carbohydrate digestion are individual sugars, which are absorbed into the bloodstream and used for energy. Amylases play an essential role in digestion by breaking down complex carbohydrates into simpler sugars that can be absorbed by the body.
Enzymes are essential molecules in living organisms that act as protein catalysts, lowering the activation energy of biochemical reactions and increasing their rates of reaction. Enzymes also allow the body to digest and absorb nutrients more efficiently by breaking down complex compounds into smaller, more absorbable fragments. Without enzymes, the digestive process would be much slower and less efficient, and the body would not be able to obtain the necessary nutrients to sustain life.
