Internal Systems

Macronutrients

Nutrients required in large amounts that include carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.

Carbohydrates

Energy source found in bread, pasta, rice, fruits, and vegetables, composed of monosaccharides, disaccharides, and polysaccharides.

Proteins

Structural components of cells, made up of amino acids and found in meat, fish, eggs, tofu, nuts, and dairy.

Lipids/Fats

Long term energy storage and other functions, made of glycerol and fatty acids, found in meat, dairy, oils, and nuts.

Vitamins

Organic molecules necessary for various bodily functions, found in vitamins A, B, C, D, E, and K.

Minerals

Inorganic nutrients required for normal cellular functions, including calcium, iron, and magnesium.

Water

A vital nutrient that makes up 55-60% of the body, necessary for chemical reactions, blood volume maintenance, and temperature regulation.

Digestion

The process of converting food substances into a state that can be absorbed by the digestive tract.

Peristalsis

Wave-like muscle contractions that move food through the digestive tract.

Egestion

The elimination of unabsorbed waste materials from the body.

Mechanical Digestion

Physical breakdown of food through chewing and muscular movements.

Chemical Digestion

The breakdown of food by enzymes into simpler substances.

Villi

Finger-like projections in the small intestine that increase surface area for nutrient absorption.

Bile

A substance produced in the liver that emulsifies fats in the small intestine.

Gastric Fluids

Fluids secreted by the stomach lining that aid in digestion, including hydrochloric acid and pepsin.

Homeostasis

The maintenance of stable internal conditions, which water helps regulate.