Physio 26: Digestion & Absorption of Nutrients

Digestion and absorption transform diverse, complex food sources into a small set of molecules the body can actually use. This process is not simply mechanical or chemical—it is precisely regulated, selective, and efficient.In this episode, Medlock Holmes examines how carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals are digested and absorbed along the gastrointestinal tract. We explore enzyme specificity, membrane transport mechanisms, and how different nutrients require distinct strategies to cross epithelial barriers.Rather than presenting digestion as a single process, this episode frames it as a series of conversions, each step ensuring compatibility between the external environment and internal physiology.Here, physiology teaches that usefulness emerges through transformation.Key Takeaways* Digestion reduces complex nutrients into absorbable units* Enzymatic specificity ensures efficient breakdown* Different nutrients use distinct absorption mechanisms* Transport across epithelium is highly regulated* Nutrient availability depends on both digestion and absorption This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit drmanaankarray.substack.com/subscribe