Question

Explain the following term:

Assimilation

Answer 1

Assimilation:

1. All digested and absorbed nutrients from the food are not used by the body instantly.
2. Some of the nutrients are converted into another form and stored in body for later use. This process is known as assimilation.
3. Examples of assimilation:
   • Liver can convert excess glucose into insoluble glycogen and stores it. When glucose is needed, liver converts glycogen into glucose.
   • Glucose is also converted into fat and stored in adipose tissue.
   • Excess fatty acids are deposited under the skin in the form of fats.
   • Excess amino acids are eliminated by kidney in the form of urea.