Human Biology (Diseases on the digestive system) Flashcards
How do the size and contents of a meal affect the digestive system’s productivity?
The size and contents of a meal affect the speed at which materials are moved through the alimentary canal. A large meal cause the stomach to stretch further and material is pushed into the small intestine faster than a smaller meal. High protein/fat content meals slow the movement of the stomach to the small intestine. Alcohol and caffeine also stimulate the movements in the stomach.
What is constipation?
high absorbance of water, leaving dry and hard faeces that can be difficult or painful to defecate.
What are the 3 main causes of constipation?
- Build-up of faeces in the large intestine for a long time.
- Little intake of roughage (cellulose) in the body
- Lack of exercise and emotional problems.
What is Diarrhoea?
Frequent defecation of water faeces. It occurs because of irritation of the small or large intestine, which leads to increased peristalsis moving intestinal contents before fully absorbing water. Severance of dehydration from loss of water from the intestines can lead to death.
What are the pathogens that lead to diarrhoea?
- Bacterias (i.e. Escherichia coli, Salmonella, Campylobacter)
- Viruses
- Parasites
- Cancers, such as bowel cancer
- Lactose Intolerance
Examples and good sources of soluble fibres:
Pectins
Gums
Mucilage
Fruits
Vegetables
Oat Bran
Barley & Soy
What are the benefits of soluble fibres?
- Lower cholesterol levels in the blood, because fats are trapped by soluble fibres, helping to prevent absorption by the body.
- Decreased risk of heart disease and cancer
- Beneficial effects on blood glucose levels
What is Bowel Cancer?
An uncontrolled growth of cells in the wall of the large intestine.
What are the 4 causes of bowel cancer?
- Diet and high alcohol consumption and smoking
- Diet high in red and processed meat
- Diet that is low in fibres
- Obesity and physical inactivity
What is Coeliac Disease?
A disease that makes people unable to tolerate gluten. If eaten, it stimulates the immune system to respond by damaging or destroying the villi in the small intestine. Without healthy villi, nutrients cannot be absorbed, and the person becomes malnourished regardless of food intake.
Where is gluten found?
In wheat, rye, or barely.
What are the symptoms of Coeliac disease?
Symptoms include:
- Muscle cramps
- Joint pain
- tingling in legs
- Or no symptoms making the condition difficult to diagnose
