Digestion Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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digestion
[daɪˈdʒɛs.tʃən ]
Definition
biological process
Digestion is the process by which food is broken down into smaller, absorbable components in the body. It begins in the mouth, where food is chewed and mixed with saliva. The food then moves to the stomach, where it is further broken down by stomach acid and enzymes. Finally, the digested food passes into the small intestine, where nutrients are absorbed into the bloodstream. Proper digestion is essential for overall health, as it allows the body to obtain the nutrients it needs for energy, growth, and maintenance.
Synonyms
breakdown, metabolism, processing.
Examples of usage
- Proper digestion is crucial for nutrient absorption.
- Digestive enzymes aid in the digestion of proteins.
- Poor digestion can lead to various health issues.
- Maintaining a balanced diet supports healthy digestion.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Biology
- Digestion starts in the mouth, where teeth chew food and saliva begins breaking it down.
- Enzymes play a crucial role in digestion; they are proteins that speed up chemical reactions to break down food.
- The stomach has a highly acidic environment, which helps kill bacteria and further digest food.
Health
- A balanced diet can aid in digestion by providing essential nutrients and fibers.
- Poor digestion can lead to discomfort, bloating, or constipation, highlighting the importance of gut health.
- Regular exercise is beneficial for digestive health, as it promotes movement in the digestive tract.
Cultural References
- In many cultures, meals are seen as a social event, emphasizing the communal aspect of digestion.
- Digestive health has inspired various traditional remedies across the world, like ginger tea which is believed to aid digestion.
- Food rituals, like saying a prayer before eating, celebrate the act of digestion as a form of gratitude.
Psychology
- Emotions can impact digestion; stress might lead to stomachaches or indigestion.
- Mindful eating practices encourage people to connect with their food, potentially improving digestion and awareness of hunger cues.
- The gut-brain connection suggests that a healthy digestive system can influence mood and mental health.
Origin of 'digestion'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'digestion' comes from the Latin 'digestio', meaning 'to distribute'.
- The root 'gest' relates to carrying or producing, highlighting how the body handles food.
- Originally used in the 14th century, it reflected the scientific curiosity about the human body.
The word 'digestion' comes from the Latin term 'digestio', which means 'dissection' or 'digesting'. The roots of the word can be traced back to 'digerere', which means 'to separate, sift, or divide', composed of 'di-' (apart) and 'gerere' (to carry, bear). This etymological background reflects the biological process of breaking down complex food structures into simpler forms that the body can utilize. Historically, digestion has been studied since ancient times, with early philosophers like Hippocrates and Galen making significant contributions to our understanding of the digestive system. Over centuries, the term has evolved to encompass all aspects of the digestive process, including mechanical and chemical breakdown of food. Today, digestion is recognized as a vital process that not only involves the stomach and intestines but also the interaction of various enzymes and hormones that regulate it.