Why are digestive enzymes found in gastric juice?

Answer 1

Digestive enzymes are found in gastric juice to facilitate the breakdown of food into simpler molecules, making nutrients more accessible for absorption in the intestines. Specifically, enzymes like pepsin begin the digestion of proteins in the acidic environment of the stomach. The presence of these enzymes ensures efficient digestion and helps prepare food for further enzymatic action in the small intestine. Additionally, the acidic gastric juice creates an optimal environment for these enzymes to function effectively.