Digestion Basics and Processes

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts regarding human digestion, including physiological processes and related medical conditions.

Mechanical Digestion

Physically breaking apart food to increase surface area for enzymes.

Chemical Digestion

Using enzymes to break down food; speed of reaction is pH and temperature sensitive.

GI Tract

A long tube on the outside of the body where food is processed and nutrients absorbed.

Peristalsis

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

Salivary Amylase

An enzyme produced in saliva that digests starch (polysaccharides) into maltose (disaccharide).

Chyme

A smooth substance formed in the stomach after food is mixed with gastric juices.

Heartburn

Occurs when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus.

Mucus

A substance that protects the stomach lining from HCL and prevents pepsin from digesting stomach tissue.

Gastric glands

Secrete mucus, enzymes, and HCL in the stomach.

Pepsin

An enzyme that breaks down complex proteins (peptides) into amino acids.

Gallbladder

Stores bile which is released to emulsify fats.

Cirrhosis

Chronic inflammation of the liver, resulting in hardness and fibrous tissue, often due to alcohol use.

SIBO (Small Intestine Bacterial Overgrowth)

A condition causing chronic diarrhea and malabsorption due to bacterial overgrowth.

Celiac Disease

An autoimmune reaction to gluten, causing digestive issues and diarrhea.

Appendicitis

Inflammation of the appendix caused by obstruction, leading to potential rupture.

Ulcerative Colitis

Inflammation of the large intestine lining that can lead to complications.