DIGESTIVES Meaning and
Definition
-
Digestives, noun (plural)
1. A type of dry, semi-sweet biscuit or cookie typically consumed as a snack or with tea in many English-speaking countries. Digestives are characterized by their slightly crumbly texture, golden brown appearance, and mild sweetness. They are made from wheat flour, sugar, baking powder, and often include rolled oats, as well as butter or vegetable oil. Digestives are usually square or rectangular in shape and may have a series of small holes on their surface. They derive their name from the belief that the inclusion of sodium bicarbonate aids digestion.
2. In medical terms, digestives refer to substances that facilitate and enhance the processes of digestion. These include various enzymes, such as amylase, lipase, and protease, which help to break down complex food molecules into simpler forms that can be absorbed by the body. Digestives may also encompass dietary fibers, bile salts, and stomach acid, all of which play a crucial role in the breakdown and assimilation of nutrients in the digestive system. Furthermore, certain medications or herbal remedies known as digestives are sometimes used to alleviate digestive disorders or enhance digestion, relieving symptoms such as bloating, heartburn, or indigestion.
Common Misspellings for DIGESTIVES
Etymology of DIGESTIVES
The term digestives originated from the Latin word digestivus, which comes from the verb digérere, meaning to digest. In the 19th century, it began to be used in English to refer to a type of biscuit or cookie that was believed to aid in digestion, hence the name digestives.
Similar spelling words for DIGESTIVES
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
