What role do enzymes play in digestion?

Enzymes play a crucial role in digestion by facilitating the chemical breakdown of food, which is essential for nutrient absorption. Specifically, enzymes act as catalysts in various biochemical reactions within the digestive system. They help convert complex food substances into simpler forms that the body can easily absorb and utilize.

For instance, proteins are broken down into amino acids, carbohydrates into simple sugars, and fats into fatty acids and glycerol, all through the action of specific digestive enzymes like proteases, amylases, and lipases, respectively. This chemical process not only aids in digestion but is vital for the subsequent absorption of nutrients in the small intestine. Without enzymes, these processes would be significantly less efficient, leading to inadequate nutrient availability for the body’s needs.

The other options describe functions that are not primarily the role of enzymes in digestion. Mechanical breakdown of food is more of a physical process involving chewing and peristalsis. Storing nutrients is a function of various tissues and organs, particularly the liver and adipose tissue. Regulating appetite and satiety involves hormones and signals in the body, separate from the enzymatic processes involved in digestion.