Track 27: Digestive Enzymes and Hormones

The digestive system relies on enzymes and hormones to break down food and regulate digestion.

Digestive Enzymes

Digestive enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up the breakdown of food into smaller molecules for absorption. They are secreted by various organs, including the salivary glands, stomach, pancreas, and small intestine.

Digestive Hormones

Digestive hormones regulate enzyme secretion, stomach acid production, and overall digestive activity. These hormones are produced in the stomach, pancreas, and small intestine.

How They Work Together

1.     Food intake → Ghrelin increases hunger

2.     Digestion starts → Gastrin stimulates acid secretion

3.     Food breakdown → Enzymes break down carbs, proteins, and fats

4.     Acid neutralization → Secretin triggers bicarbonate release

5.     Fat digestion → CCK stimulates bile & pancreatic enzymes

6.     Nutrient absorption → Enzymes finalize breakdown for absorption

7.     Satiety → Leptin reduces hunger