The change of foods in the body from insoluble to a soluble form is one step in digestion. Foods are dissolved in the digestive juices of the mouth, stomach, and intestines. Some foods such as salt and certain sugars are readily dissolved. Other foods have to undergo changes before they will dissolve. Corn-starch, for example, does not dissolve in cold water. It must be changed into sugar (which is easily dissolved) in the process of digestion. Dissolving then is an important step in the process of digesting.
Use of Water in the Body
Kinds of Water
Mineral Water
Water and Beverages
Foreign Materials in Water
Water is Body Regulating Foodstuff
Uses of Water
Heating Water
Water Requirements
Cooking with Moist Heat
Water Cycle
The Hydrologic Cycle - A Multi-Phased Journey
The Water Table
The Water Cycle and Climate Change
The Aqua Mission and the Water Cycle
Although nature provides considerable amounts of water in most foods, large quantities must be taken in the diet as a beverage. In fact, it is the need of the body for water that has led to the development of numerous beverages. Besides being necessary in building up the body and keeping it in a healthy condition, water has a special function to perform in cooking. Although this food substance is extremely essential to life, it is seldom considered in the selection of food, because, as has just been mentioned, nearly all foods contain water.