Digestion, Absorption, and Metabolism
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Digestion, Absorption, and Metabolism
The digestive system is the core of the body's functioning, and what we put into this core is responsible for our body's performance, energy, and general wellness.
An athlete needs a strong digestive system that breaks down food effectively so that the needed nutrients can be absorbed.
Digestion is the bodily process of breaking down food into simpler compounds that the body can use.
Absorption is the process of taking in nutrients and making them part of the body. Water and simple sugars are absorbed in the stomach; however, most absorption occurs in the small intestine. Nutrients absorbed in the small intestine then go to the liver. All carbs are absorbed as simple sugars, protein is absorbed as amino acids, and fat is absorbed as fatty acids as well as glycerol and mono and diglycerides.
Metabolism is the chemical processes occurring in the cells after the body absorbs nutrients. During this process, nutrients are used to build new tissue, or they are used for energy. Carbohydratess are converted into glucose to be used for energy. If they are not needed, they can be converted to glycogen or stored as fat tissue. Amino acids are used for cell growth and maintenance. Fatty acids are used for fuel.
- The process begins in the mouth, with chewing.
- Then, in the stomach, the stomach acids and digestive juices break down proteins.
- The food passes to the small intestine where it is broken down further by bile. Enzymes produced by the pancreas help to digest proteins, fats, and carbs.
Absorption is the process of taking in nutrients and making them part of the body. Water and simple sugars are absorbed in the stomach; however, most absorption occurs in the small intestine. Nutrients absorbed in the small intestine then go to the liver. All carbs are absorbed as simple sugars, protein is absorbed as amino acids, and fat is absorbed as fatty acids as well as glycerol and mono and diglycerides.
Metabolism is the chemical processes occurring in the cells after the body absorbs nutrients. During this process, nutrients are used to build new tissue, or they are used for energy. Carbohydratess are converted into glucose to be used for energy. If they are not needed, they can be converted to glycogen or stored as fat tissue. Amino acids are used for cell growth and maintenance. Fatty acids are used for fuel.
Individuals digest food at various rates; therefore, timing of
meals for an athlete is very important. Food must be near the
absorption phase to be useful during competition.
Watch
Watch the short video that outlines the process by which food is converted to energy and building blocks.