Absorption and Excretion - Anatomy and Physiology

Digestive System

A body system that breaks down food and absorbs nutrients.

Excretory System

A body system that removes unneeded materials and wastes from the bloodstream.

Metabolism

The process of breaking down food into nutrients that serve as the energy source.

Nutrient Absorption

The uptake of nutrients from the digestive tract into the bloodstream.

Water Balance

The regulation of fluid volume and composition by the kidneys.

Toxin Removal

The process of neutralizing and excreting toxins from the body.

GI Tract

The long, twisting tube including the mouth, pharynx, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, and anus.

Mouth's Role in Digestion

The mechanical and chemical breakdown of food begins with chewing and enzymes in saliva.

Esophagus

The muscular tube transporting food from the mouth to the stomach.

Liver

Produces bile, processes nutrients, and detoxifies harmful substances.

Stomach

Responsible for further digestion of food using stomach acid and enzymes.

Gallbladder

Stores and releases bile produced by the liver for fat digestion.

Pancreas

Stores digestive enzymes used in the small intestine for breaking down food.

Large Intestine

Absorbs water and electrolytes, forming feces from undigested material.

Small Intestine

The primary site for nutrient absorption and digestion with the help of enzymes.

Kidneys

Filters waste and excess substances from the bloodstream to produce urine.

Ureter

Narrow tubes connecting kidneys to the bladder.

Bladder

Muscular sac that stores urine until it is expelled from the body.

Urethra

The tube that carries urine from the bladder to the outside world.

Nephron

The fundamental unit of the kidney responsible for filtering blood.

Filtration

The process by which blood is filtered in the kidneys to remove waste.

Reabsorption

The process in which essential substances are reabsorbed into the bloodstream.

Secretion

The transport of certain substances into the renal tubules to be excreted.

Urinalysis

A test of urine that indicates the health of body systems and organs.

Glucose in Urine

Elevated levels can indicate uncontrolled diabetes.

Protein in Urine

Presence may indicate kidney disease or other health issues.

Bilirubin

A waste product from the breakdown of red blood cells; high levels can suggest liver issues.

Enzyme

A protein that acts as a catalyst in biochemical reactions.

Substrate

A molecule that fits within the active site of an enzyme and engages in a reaction.

Activation Energy

The energy required to start a chemical reaction.

Peptic Ulcer

Open sores on the inner lining of the stomach or upper part of the small intestine.