Carbohydrates Digestion

Carbohydrates are one of the three main macronutrients and serve as a primary source of energy for the body. The digestion of carbohydrates involves breaking down the bonds between sugar molecules to release energy. This process begins with the salivary digestion in the mouth and continues in the stomach and small intestine. The small intestine absorbs the monosaccharides (simple sugar molecules) and the pancreas releases insulin to help in the absorption of glucose. The end-products of digestion are monosaccharides, mainly glucose, which can be used as energy by the body's cells. The digestion of carbohydrates is an important process for maintaining energy levels in the body and for maintaining blood sugar levels.