Blood Redistribution & Starling’s Law Flashcards
What is vascular shunting?
The redistribution of cardiac output/blood
Why must an athlete not eat less than an hour before competition?
A full gut would result in more blood being redirected toward the stomach for digestion which would cause a negative effect on performance as less oxygen will be available alongside a stable oxygen intake for the brain to maintain functioning.
What is vasodilation?
The widening of blood vessels to increase the flow of blood into the capillaries
What is vasoconstriction?
The narrowing of the blood vessels to reduce blood flow into the capillaries
What is plasma?
The fluid part of blood (mainly water) that surrounds blood cells and transports them
What is haemoglobin?
An iron-containing pigment found in red blood cells which combines with oxygen to form oxyhemoglobin
What is Myoglobin?
An iron-containing pigment in slow-twitch muscle fibres which has a higher capacity for oxygen than haemoglobin. Is stored for when exercise begins
What is mitochondria?
The powerhouse of the cell, site of respiration
