Amino acids are chains of smaller links chemically bound together that get absorbed into the bloodstream after eating which nutrient?
Amino acids are obtained through the digestion and breakdown of proteins. Therefore, the nutrient that needs to be consumed to obtain amino acids is protein.
Identify one common cause of the increasing number of overweight obese people in the U.S.
A. activity level has increased
B. healthy food choices have increased
C. more cooking is done at home
D. portion sizes have increased
D. Portion sizes have increased.
Amino acids are indeed the building blocks of proteins. They are small organic molecules that are chemically linked together to form protein chains. When we consume protein-rich foods, such as meats, dairy products, legumes, or nuts, our digestive system breaks down these proteins into amino acids.
To be more specific, the process starts in the stomach, where stomach acid denatures the proteins and activates the enzyme pepsin. Pepsin breaks down the protein chains into smaller peptide fragments.
Once the partially digested proteins reach the small intestine, the pancreas releases enzymes called proteases, which further break down the peptides into smaller amino acid chains. Finally, in the lining of the small intestine, specialized cells called enterocytes help break the amino acid chains into individual amino acids through the action of additional enzymes.
After this breakdown process is complete, the individual amino acids are absorbed into the bloodstream through the intestinal lining. From there, they can be transported to various tissues and organs where they are needed for various functions like building and repairing tissues, synthesizing enzymes and hormones, and supporting overall bodily functions.