In: Biology
protein Digestion and absorption
Proteins are used by the body for repairing and building cells. Proteins are also used for creating enzymes and neurotransmitters, as well as the creation of DNA and RNA. Thus, the importance of this essential macronutrient cannot be contested. Protein digestion takes place in two different phases: In the stomach In small intestine
Digestion of Proteins in the Stomach
Two of the substances secreted by the stomach, HCl (hydrochloric acid) and pepsinogen, interact to create pepsin, an enzyme that plays a very important role in protein digestion. The process that takes place when proteins are disintegrated by the enzymes is called hydrolysis. Hydrochloric acid is used for breaking the bonds between the proteins. Next, the proteins are disintegrated into amino acids, which are molecules that play very important roles in metabolism. Pepsin, the gastric enzyme mentioned before, represents the single protease capable of digesting collagen, a fibrous protein that is one of the main constituents of connective tissue in animals.
Digestion of Proteins in the Small Intestine
Trypsin and chymotrypsin are pancreatic protease enzymes secreted by the pancreas that are involved in protein and fat digestion. From the stomach, protein digestion carries on in the duodenum, which represents the first segment of the small intestine. As well as pepsin, trypsin continues the disintegration of proteins into amino acids. Hydrolysis takes place in this case, too. In simpler words, hydrolysis involves the insertion of a water molecule between two amino acids, which forces the bond between them to break. Because amino acids have very small dimensions, they are able to penetrate the intestinal lining. From this point on, they enter the bloodstream through tiny veins, which are called capillaries. Once in the bloodstream, amino acids are transported by liquid blood plasma and red blood cells to various tissues, depending on where cell structures need to be created or repaired
Absorption
Protein absorption is how quickly and efficiently your body can absorb and assimilate amino acids. When you consume a high protein meal, it is broken down in the stomach into amino acids. Known as the building blocks of muscle, these amino acids are then transported via your bloodstream to various parts of your body to aid in muscle tissue repair and growth.The body can also store these amino acids for future use.