How does the body break down and absorb nutrients from food?

When we eat food, our digestive system breaks it down into small particles that can be absorbed by the body. The process of digestion begins in the mouth, where enzymes in our saliva begin to break down carbohydrates. The food then travels down the esophagus and into the stomach, where it is further broken down by stomach acid and digestive enzymes.

Next, the food enters the small intestine, where most of the nutrients are absorbed. The small intestine is lined with tiny finger-like projections called villi, which increase the surface area for absorption. Nutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins, and fats are broken down into their individual components and absorbed through the walls of the small intestine. Vitamins, minerals, and other micronutrients are also absorbed here.

The nutrients are then transported to the liver, which processes them and sends them out to the rest of the body. The liver converts nutrients into usable forms and distributes them to the cells that need them. Any waste products from the process are eliminated from the body as feces or urine.