Digestion system

Mouth

The starting point of the digestion process where mechanical and chemical digestion begins.

Saliva

A digestive fluid that contains the enzyme amylase, lubricates food, and initiates chemical digestion.

Peristalsis

Waves of muscular contractions that move food through the esophagus.

Sphincter

A muscle that opens and closes to regulate the flow of food between the esophagus and stomach.

Chyme

The soupy mixture of partially digested food and stomach acid that exits the stomach.

Villi

Small, finger-like projections in the small intestine that increase surface area for nutrient absorption.

Pancreas

An organ that secretes digestive enzymes and hormones crucial for digestion and blood sugar regulation.

Bile

A digestive fluid produced by the liver that emulsifies fats in the small intestine.

Large Intestine

Part of the digestive system, also known as the colon, where water absorption occurs and waste is formed.

Vitamin A

Essential for maintaining healthy skin and eyes.

Vitamin D

Important for keeping bones and the immune system strong.

Vitamin E

Ensures the strength of cell membranes, specifically blood cells.

Gallstones

Concentrated bile that can form due to high cholesterol levels in the body.

Gerd (Gastroesophageal reflux disease)

A condition characterized by the return of stomach contents into the esophagus, often causing heartburn.

Appendix

A tube-like structure at the end of the large intestine; typically has no significant function.

Diarrhea

A condition of having loose or watery stools often caused by infection.

Constipation

Difficulty in bowel movements due to excessive water absorption from waste.

Pancreatitis

A life-threatening inflammation of the pancreas.