Food biology Flashcards
digestive system Mouth
Begins the digestion process by mechanically breaking down food and mixing it with saliva, which contains enzymes to start chemical digestion of carbohydrates.
digestive system Esophagus
A muscular tube that transports food from the mouth to the stomach through peristalsis (muscle contractions)
digestive system Stomach
It churns food and secretes gastric juices containing enzymes and acids that break down proteins and kill bacteria.
digestive system Small Intestine
Comprised of three parts—duodenum, jejunum, and ileum—it’s where most digestion and absorption of nutrients occur. Enzymes from the pancreas and bile from the liver aid in breaking down fats, proteins, and carbohydrates.
digestive system Large Intestine (Colon)
Absorbs water and electrolytes, forms feces, and houses beneficial bacteria that aid in the breakdown of remaining food particles.
Accessory organs Liver
Produces bile, which is stored in the gallbladder and helps in the breakdown of fats.
Accessory organs pancreas:
Secretes digestive enzymes (such as amylase, lipase, and protease) into the small intestine to further break down carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.
Accessory organs Gallbladder
Stores and concentrates bile produced by the liver and releases it into the small intestine to aid in fat digestion.
Types of digestion
Mechanical Digestion: This type involves physically breaking down food into smaller pieces without altering its chemical composition. It starts in the mouth with chewing and continues in the stomach through churning motions that further break down food particles.
Types of digestion
Chemical Digestion: In this type, enzymes and other substances break down food into simpler nutrients that the body can absorb. It begins in the mouth with the action of saliva containing enzymes like amylase that break down carbohydrates. In the stomach, gastric juices break down proteins, and in the small intestine, enzymes from the pancreas, liver (via bile), and the intestine itself help break down proteins, fats, and carbohydrates into their building blocks for absorption.
Metabolism
encompasses all the chemical processes in the body that involve energy production and utilization. It’s divided into two main categories:
Micronutrients types of carbs % of each in your diet
Simple Carbohydrates: These are sugars found in fruits, milk, and processed foods. ranges from 45% to 65% of total daily calories
Macronutrients types of carbs % of each in your diet
Complex Carbohydrates: These are found in whole grains, vegetables, and legumes. in a balanced diet typically ranges from 45% to 65% of total daily calories
Micronutrients which could the body make which do you have to eat
Vitamin D: The body can produce this when the skin is exposed to sunlight.
Vitamin K: The body can produce some of this, but dietary sources also contribute significantly.
Biotin: The body can synthesize small amounts, but dietary intake is essential.
Vitamin C: The body cannot produce vitamin C, so it must be obtained through the diet.
Essential Minerals: Certain minerals like iron, calcium, potassium, and zinc must be consumed through food as the body cannot produce them.
A balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and proteins helps ensure an adequate intake of these essential micronutrients.
The calories per gram for each macronutrient are:
Carbohydrates: 4 calories per gram
Proteins: 4 calories per gram
Fats: 9 calories per gram