How do enzymes assist in digestion ? Explain the process and the enzymes involved in the digestion of protein, carbohydrates and fats.

Enzymes play a crucial role in digestion by breaking down complex food molecules into smaller, absorbable units that can be utilized by the body. Here's how enzymes assist in the digestion of protein, carbohydrates, and fats:

1. Protein Digestion: Proteins are broken down into amino acids by enzymes. In the stomach, pepsin (secreted as pepsinogen by gastric glands) begins protein digestion by breaking peptide bonds. In the small intestine, pancreatic enzymes like trypsin, chymotrypsin, and peptidases further break down proteins into peptides and amino acids.

2. Carbohydrate Digestion: Carbohydrates are broken down into simple sugars. Salivary amylase in the mouth starts carbohydrate digestion. In the small intestine, pancreatic amylase breaks down starches into maltose and other sugars. Additional enzymes like sucrase, lactase, and maltase on the intestinal lining convert disaccharides into monosaccharides (glucose, fructose, galactose) for absorption.

3. Fat Digestion: Fats (triglycerides) are broken down into fatty acids and monoglycerides. Lipase enzymes (pancreatic lipase) in the small intestine hydrolyze fats into smaller molecules that can be absorbed by intestinal cells.

Enzymes facilitate digestion by accelerating chemical reactions, reducing food into absorbable nutrients essential for energy and body functions.