NURS 208: Digestion of Protein & Lipid

Flashcards covering key concepts from the NURS 208 lecture on the digestion of protein and lipid.

Pepsin

An enzyme that digests proteins into smaller peptide chains.

Gastric acid secretion

The process initiated by the combination of the cephalic phase and gastric phase that stimulates the secretion of gastric acid.

Amylase

An enzyme that converts carbohydrates (starch) into disaccharides.

Chylomicrons

Large droplets formed by combining triglycerides with cholesterol and proteins, absorbed into the lymphatic system.

Bile salts

Amphipathic compounds that aid in the emulsification of fats during digestion.

Fat-soluble vitamins

Vitamins A, D, E, and K that are absorbed along with lipids in the intestine.

Intrinsic factor

A protein secreted by the stomach that is necessary for the absorption of vitamin B12.

Somatostatin

A hormone that inhibits the release of gastrin, thereby reducing gastric acid secretion.

Disaccharidases

Enzymes that further degrade disaccharides into monosaccharides.

Micelles

Small disk-like structures formed by bile salts, phospholipids, and fatty acids, aiding in fat digestion.