Digetsive System Flashcards
What is the main function of the digestive system?
The digestive system breaks down food into nutrients that the body can absorb and use for energy, growth, and repair.
What are the main organs of the digestive system?
the mouth, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, rectum, and anus.
What role does the mouth play in digestion?
he mouth mechanically breaks down food through chewing and mixes it with saliva, which contains enzymes to begin chemical digestion.
What enzyme in saliva helps break down carbohydrates?
Amylase.
What is the function of the esophagus?
The esophagus transports food from the mouth to the stomach using wave-like muscle contractions called peristalsis.
How does the stomach contribute to digestion?
the stomach secretes gastric juices containing hydrochloric acid and enzymes like pepsin to break down proteins. It also churns food into a semi-liquid form called chyme.
What is the primary function of the small intestine?
The small intestine is where most nutrient absorption occurs. It also continues chemical digestion with enzymes from the pancreas and bile from the liver.
What are villi and what is their role in digestion?
Villi are tiny finger-like projections lining the small intestine that increase surface area for nutrient absorption.
What does bile do in digestion, and where is it produced?
Bile emulsifies fats, breaking them into smaller droplets for easier digestion. It is produced by the liver and stored in the gallbladder.
What is the function of the pancreas in digestion?
The pancreas produces digestive enzymes (like lipase, amylase, and proteases) and bicarbonate to neutralize stomach acid in the small intestine.
What happens in the large intestine?
The large intestine absorbs water and electrolytes from undigested food and forms solid waste (feces).
What is peristalsis?
Peristalsis is a series of wave-like muscle contractions that move food through the digestive tract.
What is heartburn, and what causes it?
Heartburn occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing a burning sensation. It is often caused by acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
What are common disorders of the digestive system?
Common disorders include GERD, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn’s disease, ulcers, constipation, and diarrhea.
How long does it take for food to pass through the entire digestive system?
It typically takes 24 to 72 hours for food to pass through the entire digestive system.
These flashcards cover anatomy, functions, processes, enzymes, and common disorders associated with the digestive system.
What triggers the swallowing reflex?
The swallowing reflex is triggered when food or liquid touches sensory receptors in the oropharynx.
What happens during the pharyngeal phase of swallowing?
During the pharyngeal phase, the soft palate closes off the nasopharynx, and the epiglottis covers the larynx to prevent aspiration while food is pushed into the esophagus.
What role does peristalsis play in swallowing?
Peristalsis is a series of wave-like muscle contractions that move food through the esophagus during the esophageal phase of swallowing.
What are common disorders associated with swallowing reflex dysfunction?
Disorders include dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), aspiration (food entering lungs), and achalasia (failure of lower esophageal sphincter to relax).
How does aging affect the swallowing reflex?
Aging can weaken muscles involved in swallowing, reduce saliva production, and slow down nerve responses, increasing risk for dysphagia.
What are the four main types of teeth in humans?
Incisors, canines, premolars, and molars.
What is the function of canines?
Tearing food.
What is the function of incisors?
Cutting food.
How many incisors do adults typically have?
Eight (four in the upper jaw and four in the lower jaw).
