Anatomy
Fact-checked

At TheHealthBoard, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What Is the Process of Protein Digestion?

Meghan Perry
Meghan Perry

Protein digestion follows a very rigid process; the purpose is to break down the protein into smaller components, called amino acids, which are used to rebuild or replace damaged or dying proteins in the body after digestion is complete. There are nine essential amino acids, which are often referred to as building blocks. The physical act of protein digestion begins in the mouth, when the food containing the protein is chewed into smaller pieces. The chemical process of protein digestion begins when the food enters the stomach, and it is this part of the process that enables the protein to be broken down into molecules the body can use.

When food enters the mouth, it is broken down physically by the act of chewing. Some foods that contain a high amount of protein to be digested include meat, eggs, nuts, and dairy. The food mixes with saliva in the mouth, which aids its travel down the esophagus. Between the esophagus and the stomach is a valve called a sphincter, and when the food travels through that valve, the chemical process of protein digestion begins.

The liver and intestines are involved in protein digestion.
The liver and intestines are involved in protein digestion.

During the chemical process of protein digestion, hydrochloric acid, along with enzymes known as pepsins, mix with the protein molecules and break the bonds that hold the molecules together. Once these bonds are broken, through a process known as hydrolysis, the proteins are close to becoming the essential amino acids needed by the body. The process of protein digestion in the stomach can take up to four hours, but there are a variety of factors that may affect the amount of time it takes. Individuals who struggle with indigestion will often rely on Supergreens for assistance. Supergreens often contain enzyme blends, including pepsin, that improve digestion.

The chemical process of protein digestion begins when the food enters the stomach.
The chemical process of protein digestion begins when the food enters the stomach.

Once digestion in the stomach is complete, the nearly broken-down proteins move through the duodenum into the small intestine. At this point, the pancreas finishes the protein breakdown by releasing an enzyme called trypsin. Once this final breakdown is completed, the amino acids move through the wall in the small intestine into small capillaries. The digested protein, or amino acids, travels through the liver before entering the main bloodstream. The amino acids then travel throughout the entire body to the organs that most need to be replenished.

The physical act of protein digestion begins in the mouth, when the food containing the protein is chewed into smaller pieces.
The physical act of protein digestion begins in the mouth, when the food containing the protein is chewed into smaller pieces.

If the body has too much protein and it cannot all be digested and absorbed into the bloodstream, the remainder will continue through the large intestine and travel through the kidneys. At this point, it is converted into a waste product known as urea. It is then discharged from the body in the urine.

Discussion Comments

burcidi

@fify-- Yes, it's possible.

Do you also experience cramps, gas and nausea after eating meat? Does your stool look different, for example, does it look like it has mucus?

These are symptoms of protein intolerance. This is when the body doesn't have the enzymes required for protein metabolism.

You may want to speak with your doctor about this. They can run some tests to determine if you really do have an intolerance and what your diet should be like.

fBoyle

I never knew that too much protein is discharged from the body. I thought it was stored. Does anyone know how much protein is too much?

fify

Is it possible for someone to not be able to digest protein?

Whenever I eat meat, I don't feel well afterward. It feels like the meat sits in my stomach for hours. I feel bloated and tired. It also causes changes in my bowel movements.

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • The liver and intestines are involved in protein digestion.
      By: nerthuz
      The liver and intestines are involved in protein digestion.
    • The chemical process of protein digestion begins when the food enters the stomach.
      By: stockshoppe
      The chemical process of protein digestion begins when the food enters the stomach.
    • The physical act of protein digestion begins in the mouth, when the food containing the protein is chewed into smaller pieces.
      By: EduardSV
      The physical act of protein digestion begins in the mouth, when the food containing the protein is chewed into smaller pieces.
    • Beans and corn are considered complimentary sources of dietary protein.
      By: Николай Григорьев
      Beans and corn are considered complimentary sources of dietary protein.
    • Excess protein that can't be digested or absorbed travels through the large intestine.
      By: pixdesign123
      Excess protein that can't be digested or absorbed travels through the large intestine.
    • The pancreas releases a number of protein-digesting enzymes.
      By: kaianni
      The pancreas releases a number of protein-digesting enzymes.