Digestion and Absorption of Carbohydrates
Overview of Carbohydrate Digestion
Carbohydrates undergo enzymatic digestion and absorption in the small intestine, providing essential energy for the body.
Digestion and Absorption of Carbohydrates
Overview of Carbohydrate Digestion
Carbohydrates are the body's primary source of energy, undergoing enzymatic breakdown for efficient absorption. This process occurs mainly in the digestive tract, involving several key enzymes.
Stages of Carbohydrate Digestion
Mouth
Salivary amylase initiates the digestion of polysaccharides like starch into smaller oligosaccharides.
Stomach
No enzymatic digestion occurs in the stomach due to gastric acidity, which deactivates salivary amylase.
Small Intestine
Pancreatic amylase further breaks down polysaccharides into disaccharides. Brush border enzymes—such as maltase, lactase, and sucrase—convert them into monosaccharides.
Carbohydrate Absorption
Absorption occurs in the small intestine via active transport and facilitated diffusion. Glucose and galactose use sodium-dependent co-transporters, while fructose enters through facilitated diffusion.
Clinical Relevance
- Enzyme deficiencies, such as lactose intolerance, impair digestion.
- Malabsorption syndromes can lead to nutrient deficiencies.
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