Human Nutrition

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms related to human nutrition and the digestive system.

Starch

A type of carbohydrate that is a complex molecule made of smaller units.

Smaller units of starch

Glucose molecules, which are the building blocks of starch.

Proteins

Large molecules made up of amino acids that perform various functions in the body.

Lipase

An enzyme that digests fats.

Gastric juice

A liquid produced in the stomach, containing hydrochloric acid and enzymes that break down proteins.

Alimentary canal

The complete system of organs involved in digestion, extending from the mouth to the anus.

Peristalsis

The rhythmic muscular contractions that move food through the alimentary canal.

Absorption

The process of nutrients moving from the digestive system into the bloodstream.

Egestion

The removal of undigested food from the body as faeces.

Emulsification

The process by which bile breaks down large drops of fat into smaller droplets.

Hydrochloric acid

A strong acid produced in the stomach that aids digestion and kills bacteria.

Bile

An alkaline fluid produced by the liver that helps with the digestion of fats.

Simple sugars

The end products of starch digestion, produced by the enzyme amylase.

Amino acids

The end products of protein digestion, produced by the enzyme protease.

Fatty acids and glycerol

The end products of fat digestion, produced by the enzyme lipase.

Goblet cells

Cells in the lining of the alimentary canal that secrete mucus.

Sphincter muscles

Rings of muscle that can contract to close sections of the alimentary canal.