Small Intestine Digestion: Enzymes & Substances for Nutrient Breakdown

In order to properly digest food, the small intestine releases a number of substances that break down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. These substances include:

Enzymes:

* Amylase: Breaks down carbohydrates into simple sugars, such as glucose.

* Proteases: Breaks down proteins into amino acids.

* Lipases: Break down fats into fatty acids and glycerol.

Bile:

* Produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder, bile helps to break down fats into smaller droplets so that they can be digested by lipases.

Water and electrolytes:

* Help to transport nutrients from the small intestine into the bloodstream.

Mucus:

* Protects the lining of the small intestine from digestive enzymes and other harsh substances.

Together, these substances create a suitable environment for the digestion and absorption of nutrients in the small intestine.