The Products of Digestion (WJEC GCSE Biology)

Revision Note

Emma Archbold

Last updated

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 Archbold

Author: Emma Archbold

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!