Question

Where is protein digestion accomplished?
a. Stomach
b. Ileum
c. Rectum
d. Duodenum

Answer 1

Hint: Protein is a macro biomolecule, made of subunits called amino acids, that the body cannot directly use. In order to utilise the protein, the body needs to digest and break the protein into smaller subunits i.e. amino acids, then only the body can absorb them.

Complete answer: Let’s begin with a simple question as what is protein?
Protein is the building block of our body. Every part is made of protein such as our muscles, hair, eyes, organs, hormones and enzymes.
Its function is to help to repair and maintain our worn body tissues. Protein is a very large molecule made up of a unit called amino acids. There are 20 amino acids, but 9 of them are non-essential while 11 are called essential amino acids, so we need to get them through our diet.
Based on protein sources such as meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products called whole proteins or complete proteins because they contain all nine essential amino acids.
Protein digestion:
Protein digestion begins when the protein source reaches the stomach. Hydrochloric acid and enzymes called proteases break it down into smaller chains of amino acids. From the stomach, these smaller chains of amino acids move into your small intestine. As this happens, the pancreas releases enzymes and a bicarbonate buffer that reduces the acidity of digested food. Some common enzymes involved in this phase include:
> trypsin
> chymotrypsin
> carboxypeptidase

Protein absorption also happens in the small intestine, with the help of microvilli. Microvilli are small, finger-like structures that increase the surface area for absorption in the small intestine. Upon absorption, amino acids are released into your bloodstream, for assimilation.

So, the correct answer is (C) Ileum

Note: Protein is a vital nutrient for the whole body. It’s digested in the stomach and small intestine before it’s released into the bloodstream as individual amino acids. Absorption can be maximized by opting for the best protein sources of complete proteins and adopting certain good habits, such as chewing thoroughly before swallowing.