The digestion of food and subsequent absorption into the bloodstream is important because
A. absorbed food is toxic to the body
B. absorbed food stimulates reproduction
C. absorbed food is the raw material for metabolism
D. absorbed food aids in respiration
C) absorbed food is the raw material for metabolism
- Correct: The digestion of food and subsequent absorption into the bloodstream are essential processes because absorbed food molecules serve as the raw material for metabolism. Once nutrients from food are absorbed into the bloodstream, they are transported to cells throughout the body where they are used for various metabolic processes. Carbohydrates are broken down into glucose, which is used for energy production. Proteins are broken down into amino acids, which are used for building and repairing tissues, as well as for synthesizing enzymes and hormones. Fats are broken down into fatty acids and glycerol, which are used for energy production and for building cell membranes and certain hormones. Overall, absorbed food molecules provide the necessary energy and building blocks for cellular activities, growth, and maintenance of the body.
A) absorbed food is toxic to the body
- Incorrect: Absorbed food is not inherently toxic to the body. In fact, nutrients obtained from food are essential for the body's survival and proper functioning. However, certain substances in food may be harmful if absorbed in excessive amounts, such as certain vitamins or minerals. Generally, the body has mechanisms to regulate nutrient absorption and maintain homeostasis.
B) absorbed food stimulates reproduction
- Incorrect: While proper nutrition is important for overall health and fertility, absorbed food does not directly stimulate reproduction. Reproduction is regulated by various hormones and physiological processes within the body.
D) absorbed food aids in respiration
- Incorrect: While nutrients obtained from food are used by cells for energy production through respiration, absorbed food itself does not directly aid in respiration. Respiration is a complex physiological process that involves the exchange of gases (oxygen and carbon dioxide) in the lungs and cellular respiration within cells to produce energy.
Therefore, the Correct Answer is C.