Digestive System Study Guide Flashcards

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering the anatomy, prefixes, disorders, and physiological processes of the human digestive system as outlined in the study guide.

Calcium diet health benefits Improves the health of bones, teeth, and the nervous system, and aids in blood clotting

Removes bloodclotting aid.

Gallbladder

An accessory organ of the digestive system.

Small intestine

The digestive organ responsible for the absorption of nutrients after the digestion of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins is completed.

Alimentary canal

Another name for the digestive system.

Gastro

A medical term meaning stomach.

Pancreas

A feather-shaped organ that produces digestive enzymes and empties them into the duodenum to continue the chemical breakdown of food.

Gastrointestinal tract primary structures

The sequence of structures food passes through during digestion, including the pharynx, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and colon.

Chemical digestion

The role played by saliva and digestive enzymes in breaking down food.

Hepatitis C

An asymptomatic viral infection where individuals are often unaware of symptoms and may become chronic carriers.

Esophagus

A primary structure of the digestive system through which food passes.

Cirrhosis

A digestive disorder that may occur if a person abuses alcohol or Tylenol.

Large intestine

The digestive organ responsible for the elimination of waste, water absorption, bacterial action, fecal formation, and defecation.

Chole-

A digestive prefix meaning bile.

Irritable bowel syndrome

A condition characterized by constipation or diarrhea, abdominal pain, and gas or bloating.

Cholelithiasis

A diagnosis indicated by abdominal pain and nausea after eating a meal high in fat.

Hepat

A medical term meaning liver.

Peptic ulcer

A sore in the lining of the stomach that can be caused by increased stress or routine use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen.

Chyme

A liquid substance produced during digestion, distinct from a food bolus.

Carbohydrates

Nutrients found in foods like pancakes and pasta that provide extra energy for activities like running.

Descending colon

A specific structure located within the large intestine.

Tongue

An organ that aids in both chewing (physical breakdown) and swallowing the bolus once it is formed in the buccal cavity.

Gastroesophageal reflux

A condition causing pain and burning in the epigastric region when laying flat, which improves when the head of the bed is raised.

Teeth

The digestive structures responsible for the physical breakdown, tearing, and grinding of food.

Bile

A substance produced by the liver that aids in the digestion of fat.

Enter

A medical prefix meaning intestine.

Physical breakdown of food

The primary function of the digestive system to which both the teeth and tongue contribute.