What does the digestive system breakdown?

The digestive system breaks down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats into simple molecules that the body can use for energy and growth. This process begins in the mouth, where salivary amylase breaks down carbohydrates into sugars. The food is then swallowed and travels down the esophagus to the stomach, where it is mixed with gastric juices that contain hydrochloric acid and pepsin. Pepsin begins to break down proteins, while hydrochloric acid kills bacteria and creates an acidic environment that is necessary for pepsin to work. The food is then passed to the small intestine, where it is further broken down by enzymes from the pancreas and bile from the liver. Pancreatic enzymes break down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, while bile helps to break down fats. The small intestine also absorbs nutrients from the food. Any remaining waste products are passed to the large intestine, where they are eventually eliminated from the body.