Introduction

Digestion is the process by which our body breaks down food into nutrients that can be absorbed and used by the body. There are two types of digestion: mechanical and chemical. The difference between the two will be explained below.

mechanical digestion

Mechanical digestion is the physical process of decomposition of food into smaller particles. This process It begins in the mouth with chewing, where the teeth grind food and mix it with saliva. Saliva contains enzymes that help break down carbohydrates. Subsequently, the bolus moves to the stomach, where it is mixed with hydrochloric acid and gastric juices. The walls of the stomach contract around the bolus to continue mechanizing the food and mixing it with gastric juices.

Characteristics of mechanical digestion

• It takes place mainly in the mouth and stomach.
• The objective is to reduce the size of food.
• It does not involve chemical reactions.

chemical digestion

Chemical digestion is the process by which food is broken down by enzymes and other chemicals. This process begins in the mouth with the secretion of saliva that contains the enzyme amylase, which helps break down carbohydrates. In the stomach, hydrochloric acid and gastric juices continue to break down food. Subsequently, in the small intestine, enzymes are released from the pancreas and gallbladder to further break down food and facilitate its absorption.

Characteristics of chemical digestion

• It takes place mainly in the small intestine.
• The goal is to break down nutrients into simpler substances for greater absorption.
• It relies on chemical reactions to break down food.

Conclusions

It is important to note that both mechanical and chemical digestion are necessary processes for the absorption of nutrients in the body. Both processes work together to ensure that food is properly processed and converted into nutrients that can be absorbed by the body.

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