Digestion and Absorption of Major Food Substances

In most diets, carbohydrates are a major source of the body s energy requirements. The predominant digestible carbohydrates are starches (amylose and amylopectin). Depending upon the diet, the digestible carbohydrates may 

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SECTION 12.3 Digestion and Absorption of Major Food Substances... 

The purpose of the gastrointestinal tract is to digest and absorb food. As a result, it is a major site for absorption of xenobiotic chemical substances. Many environmental toxicants enter the food chain and are absorbed together with food. In occupational settings, airborne toxic substances enter the mouth from breathing and, if not inhaled, can be swallowed and absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. 

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