Food & Digestion

Mouth

The starting point of digestion where food is chewed and mixed with saliva.

Esophagus

The muscular tube that moves food from the mouth to the stomach using peristalsis.

Stomach

A muscular organ where food is mixed with gastric juices for digestion.

Small Intestine

The site of most digestion and nutrient absorption.

Large Intestine

Absorbs water and forms solid waste (feces).

Rectum

Stores feces before elimination.

Anus

The opening at the end of the digestive tract where feces exit the body.

Liver

Produces bile, which helps break down fats.

Gallbladder

Stores bile and releases it into the small intestine.

Pancreas

Produces digestive enzymes and the hormone insulin.

Salivary Glands

Glands in the mouth that produce saliva containing amylase.

Epiglottis

A flap of tissue that prevents food from entering the windpipe during swallowing.

Pharynx

The area in the back of the throat where food and air pathways cross.

Villi

Tiny finger-like projections in the small intestine that increase the surface area for absorption.

Microvilli

Even smaller projections on the villi that further enhance absorption.

Enzyme

A protein that speeds up chemical reactions, including digestion.

Amylase

An enzyme that breaks down starch into sugars.

Protease

An enzyme that breaks down proteins into amino acids.

Lipase

An enzyme that breaks down fats into fatty acids and glycerol.

Bile

A substance produced by the liver that emulsifies fats, aiding digestion.

Carbohydrates

Energy-providing nutrients found in bread, pasta, and rice.

Proteins

Nutrients essential for growth and repair, found in meat, eggs, and beans.

Fats (Lipids)

Energy-rich nutrients that also provide insulation and are found in oils and butter.

Vitamins

Organic compounds needed in small amounts for various body functions (e.g., Vitamin C for immunity).

Minerals

Inorganic substances essential for body processes (e.g., calcium for bones).

Dietary Fiber

Plant material that aids digestion and prevents constipation.

Water

Essential for maintaining hydration and many biochemical processes.

Homeostasis

The maintenance of a stable internal environment in the body.

Negative Feedback

A mechanism that maintains homeostasis by reversing changes to a set point.

Blood Glucose

The concentration of glucose in the bloodstream.

Insulin

A hormone produced by the pancreas that lowers blood glucose levels.

Glucagon

A hormone that raises blood glucose levels by signaling the liver to release stored glucose.

Diabetes

A condition where the body cannot regulate blood glucose levels effectively.

Glycogen

A storage form of glucose in the liver and muscles.

Hypoglycemia

Low blood glucose levels, often causing symptoms like dizziness and fatigue.