Question

Describe the process of assimilation of food.

Answer 1

Hint: The process of absorption of vitamins, minerals, and other chemicals in the simpler form from the food within the gastrointestinal tract is very much essential for proper growth and development of the body.

Complete answer:
Assimilation is the process through which an organism absorbs nutrients from outside its body before assimilation the complex form of food is converted into the simpler one, so that it can easily be absorbed by the cells.The most simple life form is of a single-cell organism, that does assimilation via direct intake through the cell membrane. In multicellular organisms, such as plants and animals, the process of assimilation is different and becomes more elaborative in more complex life forms.

The humans have a more complex digestive system to assimilate food and water. Food is taken in by mouth and travels down the stomach through the esophagus.The digestive process starts in the mouth by the action of enzyme amylase over carbohydrate content of food.In stomach hydrochloric acid kills bacteria that could cause food poisoning and proteins are converted into amino acids by the action of enzyme pepsin.These nutrients were absorbed once they are passed into the small intestine.

Once the food enters the small intestine,the absorption and assimilation digested food begins. Here in the wall of small intestine glucose, fructose, fatty acids, and proteins are absorbed through the mucosa and reaches the bloodstream. From there, they reach tissues throughout the body and thus assimilate.The blood and lymph transport the absorbed food materials to different body cells where they are used for energy, growth, and repair. The unabsorbed food from the small intestine is then passed into the large intestine where water and minerals are absorbed. Whatever is left unabsorbed is waste and then expelled through the anus.
Note:
- In the case of human beings, assimilation is always done with a chemical breakdown (enzymes and acids) and physical breakdown (oral mastication and stomach-churning).
- Lack of protein in our body causes kwashiorkor, marasmus, impaired mental health. Edema, organ failure, wasting and shrinkage of muscle tissues, and weakness of the immune system.
- Lack of carbohydrate in our body causes ketosis to come with symptoms, including headache, a dry mouth, and a fruity smell to the breath.