Understanding the Digestive Process Carbohydrate Digestion: Begins in the mouth where food is chewed, activating enzymes. The Liver and Gallbladder: Work together to produce and store bile, which is essential for fat digestion. Bile is released into the stomach during digestion. The liver also detoxifies the blood. Stomach’s Role: Acidic environment breaks down food, kills pathogens, and prevents GERD when properly acidified. Small Intestine: Home to the microbiome, crucial for immune health and nutrient absorption. Works with the appendix to repopulate gut flora after illness. Large Intestine: Absorbs water and vitamins, storing waste until elimination. Digestive Concerns? Look to Enzymes …