Proteins are digested in several stages. The process begins in the stomach, where the acidic environment and enzymes break down the proteins into smaller peptides. The stomach produces an enzyme called pepsin, which is activated by the acidic environment, and it breaks down the peptide bonds between amino acids in proteins.
After leaving the stomach, the partially digested proteins enter the small intestine, where additional enzymes are secreted by the pancreas and small intestine. These enzymes break down the peptides into smaller peptides and individual amino acids. Once the peptides are broken down into individual amino acids, they can be absorbed into the bloodstream and transported to cells throughout the body.
The amino acids are then used by cells to build new proteins or for other metabolic processes. Any excess amino acids are converted into other molecules or are excreted from the body.