The Products of Digestion (WJEC GCSE Biology)

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The Products of Digestion

  • After the digested food substances are absorbed through the lining of the small intestine into the blood, the substances are then assimilated into the biological molecules of the body
  • For example, glucose can be used to build new large carbohydrates like glycogen, amino acids can build new proteins, and fatty acids and glycerol can build new fats
  • Carbohydrates, proteins and lipids are all very important parts of a balanced diet because they play essential roles in the body:

Function of carbohydrates, proteins and fats table

Food type Function Sources
Carbohydrate Source of energy. Glucose from carbohydrate digestion acts as a reactant for respiration Bread, cereals, pasta, rice, potatoes
Protein Growth and repair. Allows the building of new proteins in the body such as keratin which is needed to grow new skin cells and hair Meat, fish, eggs, pulses, nuts
Fats Insulation and energy storage. Fats are a more condensed form of energy storage than carbohydrates however it is more difficult to release the energy Butter, oil, nuts

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Emma

Author: Emma

Expertise: Biology

Prior to working at SME, Emma was a Biology teacher for 5 years. During those years she taught three different GCSE exam boards and two A-Level exam boards, gaining a wide range of teaching expertise in the subject. Emma particularly enjoys learning about ecology and conservation. Emma is passionate about making her students achieve the highest possible grades in their exams by creating amazing revision resources!