Digestion in humans

Question 1

What is the digestive system?

Answer 1

The digestive system is a group of organs responsible for breaking down food, absorbing nutrients, and eliminating waste.

Question 2

What are the main organs involved in digestion?

Answer 2

Mouth
Esophagus
Stomach
Small Intestine
Large Intestine
Rectum
Anus

Question 3

Describe the process of digestion.

Answer 3

Digestion involves mechanical breakdown (chewing and churning) and chemical breakdown (enzymes breaking down food) of food.

Question 4

Name three important digestive enzymes and their functions.

Answer 4

Amylase: Breaks down starch into sugars (found in saliva).
Protease: Breaks down proteins into amino acids (found in the stomach).
Lipase: Breaks down fats into fatty acids and glycerol (produced in the pancreas).

Question 5

Where does most nutrient absorption occur?

Answer 5

Most nutrient absorption occurs in the small intestine, where the lining is adapted with villi to maximize surface area.

Question 6

What is the role of fiber in digestion?

Answer 6

Fiber helps to regulate the body’s use of sugars, helping to keep hunger and blood sugar in check, and aids in bowel regularity.