Understanding Nutrition - Chapter 3: Digestion, Absorption, and Transport

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to digestion, absorption, transport, and digestive health from the chapter on Nutrition.

Digestion

The process by which the body breaks down foods into nutrients for absorption.

Absorption

The uptake of nutrients by the cells of the small intestine for transport into the blood or lymph.

Bolus

Chewed and swallowed food that is formed into a round mass.

Chyme

The mixture of food and digestive juices in the stomach that is released into the small intestine.

Peristalsis

Rhythmic contractions of longitudinal muscles to push chyme through the GI tract.

Segmentation

Circular muscle contractions that churn the chyme in the small intestine.

Gastrointestinal Tract

The system within the body that digests food and absorbs nutrients.

Microvilli

Tiny hair-like structures on the surface of villi that increase the surface area for absorption.

Villi

Small projections on the lining of the small intestine that facilitate absorption.

Gastric Juices

Digestive fluids secreted by the stomach that help break down food.

Secretin

A hormone released by the duodenal wall in response to acidic chyme that stimulates bicarbonate secretion.

Cholecystokinin

A hormone that prompts the gallbladder to release bile and stimulates pancreatic juice secretion.

Bile

A digestive fluid produced by the liver that helps emulsify fats.

Hydrochloric Acid

A strong acid produced in the stomach that aids in digestion.

Fiber

A type of carbohydrate that helps regulate digestion and prevent constipation.

Probiotics

Live microorganisms found in certain foods that can provide health benefits.

Prebiotics

Substances that feed beneficial gut bacteria and improve gut health.

Gut Dysbiosis

An imbalance in gut microbiota that can lead to digestive issues.

Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD)

Autoimmune conditions characterized by chronic inflammation of the GI tract, including Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

Celiac Disease

An autoimmune disorder triggered by the ingestion of gluten, causing inflammation in the small intestine.

Constipation

Difficulty in passing stools, often due to lack of fiber or hydration.

Diarrhea

Frequent, loose, watery stools.

Gastroesophageal Reflux

A condition where stomach acid backs up into the esophagus, causing heartburn.

Peptic Ulcer

A sore that develops on the lining of the stomach, small intestine, or esophagus.

Homeostasis

The body's ability to maintain stable internal conditions.

Nutrition Absorption

The process of nutrient uptake from the small intestine into circulation.

Digestive Enzymes

Proteins that facilitate the breakdown of food molecules.

Mucus

A thick fluid secreted by the goblet cells that lubricates and protects the GI tract lining.

Throat

The passage that connects the mouth and the esophagus, also known as the pharynx.

Sphincter

A circular muscle that constricts a passage or closes a natural opening.

Liver

An organ that processes nutrients and detoxifies harmful substances.

Kidneys

Organs that filter waste products from the blood and produce urine.

Gallbladder

A small organ that stores and concentrates bile from the liver.

Rectum

The final section of the large intestine, where waste is stored before excretion.

Anus

The opening at the end of the digestive tract through which waste is expelled.

Digestive Glands

Glands in the digestive tract that secrete digestive fluids.

Epithelial Cells

Cells that line the surfaces of organs and structures throughout the body.

Digestive System

A system of organs responsible for digestion and absorption of food.

Obesity

A condition characterized by excessive body fat that increases the risk of health issues.

Choking

An obstruction of the airway caused by food blocking the trachea.

Abdominal Thrusts

A first aid technique to dislodge an obstruction from a choking person.

Medications

Chemical compounds used for treatment of diseases and conditions in the digestive tract.

Fluids

Liquids necessary for facilitating digestion and absorption.

Pain Management

Treatment strategies for alleviating discomfort and pain associated with digestive disorders.

Hydration

The process of providing sufficient fluid to maintain bodily functions.

Chronic Conditions

Long-term health issues that require ongoing management.

Intestinal Ischemia

Reduced blood flow to the intestines resulting in pain and digestive problems.

Dietary Fiber

Plant-based carbohydrate that cannot be digested; important for health.

Nutrient Transport

The process by which absorbed nutrients move through the bloodstream to cells.

Digestive Secretions

Fluids produced in the digestive system that aid in food breakdown and nutrient absorption.

Homeostatic Mechanisms

Processes that maintain a stable internal environment in the body.

Motility

The ability of the gastrointestinal tract to move contents through peristaltic and segmental contractions.

Esophagus

The muscular tube connecting the throat to the stomach.

Small Intestine

The part of the intestine where most digestion and absorption occurs.

Large Intestine

The final part of the digestive system, responsible for water absorption and waste formation.

Anorexia

Loss of appetite or desire to eat.

Satiety

The feeling of fullness after eating.

Calorie

A unit of energy that measures food energy content.

Metabolism

The chemical processes that occur within a living organism to maintain life.

Dietary Supplements

Products taken orally that contain one or more ingredients intended to add nutritional value.

Taste Buds

Sensory organs on the tongue that detect flavors.

Indigestion

Discomfort in the stomach associated with difficulty digesting food.

Immunity

The body's ability to resist infections and diseases.

Pathogen

Microorganisms, such as bacteria and viruses, that can cause disease.

Detoxification

The process of removing toxic substances from the body.

Energy Balance

The relationship between energy intake through food and energy expenditure through activity.

Biochemical Reactions

Chemical processes that occur in the body to support life.

Gut-Brain Axis

The complex communication network linking the gastrointestinal and nervous systems.

Gut Microbiota

The collection of microorganisms that live in the digestive tracts of humans.

Synbiotics

Combination of probiotics and prebiotics for enhanced health benefits.

Health Benefits

Positive effects on health gained from dietary or lifestyle practices.

Dietary Patterns

Recurring lines of dietary choices that can influence health outcomes.

Digestive Health

Overall wellness of the gastrointestinal system.

Chronic Inflammation

A prolonged inflammatory response that can lead to tissue damage.

Supportive Foods

Foods that enhance digestive and overall health.

Gut Regulation

The management of digestive processes influenced by the nervous and hormonal systems.

Lymphatic System

The network of vessels that helps maintain fluid balance and transport fats.

Health Disparities

Differences in health outcomes among different population groups.

Appetite Regulation

The mechanisms that control the urge to eat.

Dysphagia

Difficulty swallowing, often associated with neurological conditions.

Sodium Bicarbonate

A compound that neutralizes stomach acid to protect the intestinal mucosa.

Choking Prevention

Methods and techniques to avoid airway obstruction during eating.

Nutrition Education

The process of instructing individuals about healthy dietary practices.

Pharynx

The membrane-lined cavity behind the nose and mouth that connects them to the esophagus.

Digestive Disorders

Medical conditions that impair normal digestion and absorption.

Hormonal Regulation

The control of physiological functions through hormones released in the bloodstream.

Health Outcomes

The results of healthcare practices related to a person's health status.

Muscle Contractions

The tightening and shortening of muscle fibers that facilitate movement.

Essential Nutrients

Nutrients that must be obtained through diet because they cannot be produced by the body.

Nutrient Density

The amount of beneficial nutrients in a food item relative to its energy content.

Gut Flora

The community of microorganisms residing in the gastrointestinal tract.

Detrimental Effects

Negative consequences that impact health and well-being.

Risk Factors

Attributes, characteristics, or exposures that increase the likelihood of developing a disease.

Antacids

Over-the-counter medications used to relieve heartburn and indigestion.

Dietary Recommendations

Guidelines for healthy eating patterns to promote well-being.

Environmental Influences

External factors that affect dietary choices and health outcomes.

Hydration Needs

The fluid requirements necessary for maintaining health.

Nutritional Strategies

Plans or approaches to improve dietary intake and support health.

Personalized Nutrition

Tailoring dietary recommendations based on individual needs and preferences.

Sustainable Diets

Eating patterns that promote health while preserving the environment.