A&P digestive syatem

Lactose Intolerance

A condition where individuals cannot properly digest lactose due to lack of the enzyme lactase.

Homeostasis

The process by which the digestive system maintains a stable internal environment by breaking down food, absorbing nutrients, and eliminating waste.

Gastrointestinal (GI) Tract

A continuous tube that extends from the esophagus to the anus, involved in digestion and absorption of food.

Accessory Digestive Organs

Organs such as the mouth, teeth, tongue, salivary glands, pharynx, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas that aid in digestion.

Peritoneum

The largest serous membrane of the body, lining the abdominal cavity and covering some organs.

Absorption

The passage of digested products from the digestive canal into blood plasma and lymph plasma.

Digestion

The mechanical and chemical breakdown of food into smaller molecules that can be used by the body.

Pepsin

An enzyme in the stomach that breaks down proteins into peptides; it is activated from pepsinogen by hydrochloric acid.

Cholecystokinin (CCK)

A hormone secreted by the small intestine that stimulates bile release from the gallbladder and digestive enzyme secretion from the pancreas.

Gastrin

A hormone that stimulates secretion of gastric juice and increases gastric motility.

Mucosa

The inner lining of the digestive canal, composed of epithelial tissue that absorbs nutrients and secretes mucus and enzymes.

Segmentation

Localized contractions in the small intestine that mix chyme with digestive juices and facilitate absorption.

Haustra

Pouches formed by the contraction of teniae coli in the large intestine, which facilitate its function in absorption.

Chylomicrons

Large particles that transport dietary lipids from the intestinal cells to the lymphatic system.

Teniae coli

Three longitudinal bands of muscle that run along the length of the colon, responsible for its puckered appearance.

Diverticulitis

Inflammation of diverticula in the colon, often presenting with symptoms such as abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits.

Ascitic Fluid

Fluid that may accumulate in the peritoneal cavity due to various diseases, often associated with peritonitis.

Defecation Reflex

The neural process triggered by the distension of the rectum, leading to the elimination of feces.

Liver

An organ that produces bile, metabolizes nutrients, detoxifies substances, and synthesizes proteins essential for blood clotting.

Buccal Glands

Salivary glands located in the cheeks that produce saliva to aid in digestion and oral health.

Intrinsic Factor

A glycoprotein produced in the stomach necessary for the absorption of vitamin B12.