Digestive System: Liver, Gallbladder, and Pancreas Functions

What vital roles does the liver play in the body?

The liver is essential for digestion and metabolism.

What substance does the liver produce to aid in fat digestion?

Bile, which breaks fats into smaller droplets.

Where is bile stored before being released into the small intestine?

In the gallbladder.

What happens to bile when food enters the small intestine?

Bile is released to help break down fats into fatty acids for absorption.

What is the primary function of bile in the digestive system?

Breaking down fats.

Which organ is primarily responsible for detoxifying harmful substances in the body?

The liver.

What does the liver filter from the blood?

Toxins, drugs, and other harmful substances.

What does the liver store that can be converted back to glucose when needed?

Excess glucose in the form of glycogen.

What vitamins and minerals does the liver store?

Vitamins A, D, E, K, iron, and copper.

How does the liver help in the metabolism of macronutrients?

It converts proteins into amino acids, processes fats, and regulates blood sugar levels.

What is the primary function of the gallbladder?

To store and concentrate bile.

What happens to bile while it is stored in the gallbladder?

It becomes more concentrated, increasing its effectiveness in breaking down fats.

What does the gallbladder do when you eat a fatty meal?

It releases bile into the small intestine through the bile ducts.

What is one of the primary functions of the pancreas in the digestive system?

Producing insulin and digestive enzymes.

What enzymes does the pancreas produce to aid in digestion?

Amylase, lipase, and proteases.

What is the function of amylase?

To break down carbohydrates into sugars.

What is the function of lipase?

To break down fats into fatty acids and glycerol.

What hormones does the pancreas produce to regulate blood sugar levels?

Insulin and glucagon.

What does insulin do in the body?

Lowers blood glucose levels by facilitating glucose uptake into cells.

What does glucagon do in the body?

Raises blood glucose levels by stimulating the liver to convert glycogen back into glucose.

How does the pancreas regulate metabolism?

By producing insulin and glucagon, it helps maintain energy balance in the body.