Digestion and Absorption Flashcards
Define digestion. Where does it occur?
Process in which the food is broken down into small molecules that the body can absorb and use for energy, growth, and repair
In the organs of the GI tract
Identify two organ systems that control the process of digestion by the digestive system.
endocrine system and the nervous system
What is mechanical digestion? Where does it occur?
a physical process in which food is broken into smaller pieces without becoming changed chemically
In the mouth and stomach
Describe chemical digestion.
the biochemical process in which macromolecules in food are changed into smaller molecules that can be absorbed into body fluids and transported to cells throughout the body.
What is the role of enzymes in chemical digestion?
catalyze or speed up biochemical reactions
What is absorption? When does it occur?
the process in which simple nutrient molecules are absorbed into blood or lymph.
It occurs after the process of digestion.
Where does most absorption occur in the digestive system? Why does most of the absorption occur in this organ and not earlier in the GI tract?
Small intestine
It has to be broken down first in order to be absorbed by the large, thin epithelial tissue lining it
Name two digestive enzymes found in saliva and identify which type of molecule they digest.
Amylose: Digests Amylose (Carbohydrate)
Lipase: Digests lipids (Fat)
Where is bile produced What are some functions of bile?
Liver
Assists with break down of lipids and reduced acidity by neutralizing it
True or False. Pepsin digests cellulose.
False
True or False. Glucose can be absorbed by the body without being further broken down.
True
The pH of the stomach ___________.
A. is neutral
B. is alkaline
C. is acidic
D. depends only on what you eat
C. is acidic
Lymph absorbs __________ .
A. fatty acids
B. sugars
C. amino acids
D. vitamin C
A. fatty acids
