Supplying Energy Flashcards
Digestion
The process by which your body breaks down food into small nutrient molecules
Nutrients
The substances in food that provide the raw materials the body’s cells need to carry out all their essential processes.
Carbohydrates
An energy-rich organic compound, such as sugar or starch that is made of the elements carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen.
Proteins
Proteins are made up of smaller components called amino acids which are necessary for your body to grow and for body repair.
Fats
Saturated fats and unsaturated fats are the two fats that provide a concentrated energy source.
Vitamins
Nutrients that help your body with chemical reactions.
Minerals
Nutrients that are not made by the body, but are needed to carry out chemical processes.
Water
Water is the most important nutrient and without it, you can only survive a few days.
Mechanical Digestion
Involves the physical breakdown and movement of food. The physical breakdown of food.
Peristalsis
Waves of smooth muscle contractions that move food through the esophagus toward the stomach.
Chemical Digestion
Involves the chemical breakdown of food that starts in the mouth.
Enzymes
Proteins that speed up chemical reactions in the body.
Small intestine
The majority of chemical digestion and nutrient absorption into the blood occurs in the small intestine.
Liver
The liver produces an enzyme called bile which breaks down fats.
Pancreas
Pancreas produces an enzyme called trypsin and insulin, a chemical involved in a system that monitors blood sugar levels.
