Digestive System Overview
77 Questions
1 Views

Choose a study mode

Play Quiz
Study Flashcards
Spaced Repetition
Chat to Lesson

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

Diarrhea is the result of the liquid not having enough time to be reabsorbed back into the body, causing the running substance to make for a very quick ______ strategy.

exit

Between the ages of two to five years old, ______ becomes stable and similar to that of an adult.

microbiota

At least 1000 ______ species make up our gut microbiota.

different

Good gut bacteria thrive on ______, so consuming complex carbohydrates is key.

<p>fiber</p> Signup and view all the answers

Extensive studies have shown that what we eat long-term has a significant effect on the ______ and composition of our gut microbiota.

<p>diversity</p> Signup and view all the answers

Microbiota digest food particles the small intestine hasn't been able to and use it to create vitamins, ______, nutrients, and other chemicals.

<p>hormones</p> Signup and view all the answers

Microbiota maintain the integral lining of the gut, preventing 'leaky gut ______'.

<p>syndrome</p> Signup and view all the answers

They influence metabolism and regulate ______ .

<p>weight</p> Signup and view all the answers

They produce ______ that govern hunger.

<p>hormones</p> Signup and view all the answers

Microbiota can influence ______ sugar levels.

<p>blood</p> Signup and view all the answers

They have an impact on how we ______ .

<p>sleep</p> Signup and view all the answers

They produce neurotransmitters that are intricately connected to the ______ .

<p>brain</p> Signup and view all the answers

Overuse of ______ can negatively impact gut health.

<p>alcohol</p> Signup and view all the answers

Microbiota affect our ______ health.

<p>mental</p> Signup and view all the answers

They influence the ______ gland.

<p>thyroid</p> Signup and view all the answers

A person's ______ can play a significant role in their gut health.

<p>thoughts</p> Signup and view all the answers

Anti-inflammatory drugs are often used to alleviate ______ but don't address the underlying cause.

<p>discomfort</p> Signup and view all the answers

Good bacteria will create a barrier of defense in the gut lining between its 'inside' and 'outside' ______ .

<p>environment</p> Signup and view all the answers

A diet rich in ______ foods can help reduce inflammation.

<p>anti-inflammatory</p> Signup and view all the answers

______ , ginger, and garlic are natural anti-inflammatory agents.

<p>Turmeric</p> Signup and view all the answers

The ______ nerve connects the gut and the brain.

<p>vagus</p> Signup and view all the answers

Stressful situations can send signals to the ______ system, leading to a release of cortisol.

<p>endocrine</p> Signup and view all the answers

The gut contains twice as many ______ as the brain.

<p>neurotransmitters</p> Signup and view all the answers

Over 90 percent of ______ is produced in the gut.

<p>serotonin</p> Signup and view all the answers

Dopamine is responsible for motivation, ______ , and feelings of reward.

<p>concentration</p> Signup and view all the answers

High levels of ______ can negatively impact mental activity.

<p>dopamine</p> Signup and view all the answers

Serotonin synthesis requires adequate levels of ______ vitamins.

<p>B</p> Signup and view all the answers

Tryptophan is an amino acid found in poultry, dairy products, and ______ .

<p>eggs</p> Signup and view all the answers

Dopamine synthesis is dependent on the amino acid ______ .

<p>tyrosine</p> Signup and view all the answers

Stress can lead to a ______ in serotonin levels.

<p>decrease</p> Signup and view all the answers

The impact of our thoughts, whether positive or negative, affects the whole ______ system process.

<p>digestive</p> Signup and view all the answers

Saliva lubricates the mouth and releases the first digestive enzyme called ______.

<p>amylase</p> Signup and view all the answers

The digestive hormone, ______, communicates hunger to the brain.

<p>ghrelin</p> Signup and view all the answers

The function of the stomach is to break down food into a liquefied form and to break down proteins into ______.

<p>amino acids</p> Signup and view all the answers

After eating, it typically takes about ______ minutes for the leptin message to reach the brain.

<p>20</p> Signup and view all the answers

Simple carbohydrates that are low in fiber are processed at a ______ rate than fats and proteins.

<p>faster</p> Signup and view all the answers

Overeating can cause the leptin signals sent to the brain to eventually become ______.

<p>unheard</p> Signup and view all the answers

Eating more fats, proteins, and fibrous foods like vegetables will ______ the digestion time.

<p>extend</p> Signup and view all the answers

A meaty steak can spend up to 6 or more hours in the stomach while ______ takes considerable time.

<p>vegetables</p> Signup and view all the answers

The small intestine is where 90 percent of ______ and absorption of nutrients take place.

<p>digestion</p> Signup and view all the answers

The pancreas secretes digestive enzymes like amylase, lipase and ______ to further break down food.

<p>proteases</p> Signup and view all the answers

The liver produces bile and secretes it into the ______ during digestion.

<p>small intestine</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the process of digestion, the ______ is responsible for absorbing remaining amino acids, fats, and fat-soluble vitamins.

<p>ileum</p> Signup and view all the answers

The large intestine encounters the greatest ecosystem of the body called the ______.

<p>microbiome</p> Signup and view all the answers

Probiotics in the large intestine eat fibers and sugars to produce short-chain fatty ______.

<p>acids</p> Signup and view all the answers

Fermented foods convert microorganisms into ______, a natural preservative.

<p>lactic acid</p> Signup and view all the answers

One of the functions of the large intestine is to remove ______ from the contents that have just entered.

<p>water</p> Signup and view all the answers

When the stomach and small intestine are empty, the ______ will start sending peristaltic waves to cleanse the digestive tract.

<p>MMC</p> Signup and view all the answers

The lacto-fermentation process increases the nutrient value by creating Omega 3 fatty acids, B vitamins, and ______.

<p>digestive enzymes</p> Signup and view all the answers

Phytic acid can bind to minerals like iron and zinc, preventing their full ______.

<p>bioavailability</p> Signup and view all the answers

Intestinal problems like SIBO can lead to continual ______.

<p>constipation</p> Signup and view all the answers

Medical science advises that a normal digestion time ranges from ______ to 42 hours.

<p>12</p> Signup and view all the answers

Fermented foods are beneficial, but if a gut is compromised, the better option is to avoid them and use a ______ probiotic capsule.

<p>multi-strain</p> Signup and view all the answers

Bone broth is rich in essential amino acids, minerals, gelatin, collagen, and ______.

<p>glutamine</p> Signup and view all the answers

To relieve constipation, one should eat fibrous whole ______ and mix psyllium with lot of water.

<p>foods</p> Signup and view all the answers

The walls of the large intestine are lined with ______, which protects against harmful bacteria.

<p>mucous</p> Signup and view all the answers

Plant-based broths are important, and homemade options tend to be ______.

<p>best</p> Signup and view all the answers

The rectum sends a message to the brain about releasing the newly acquired ______.

<p>substance</p> Signup and view all the answers

Including fermented foods in daily meals can support good 'living' ______ in the gut.

<p>bacteria</p> Signup and view all the answers

Excessive phytic acid may pose challenges, particularly for those with a ______ lifestyle.

<p>plant-based</p> Signup and view all the answers

In nature, phytic acid serves as an energy source for the sprouting ______.

<p>seed</p> Signup and view all the answers

Including fermented foods daily can defend against ______ bacteria.

<p>bad</p> Signup and view all the answers

The gut can shut down as blood flow causes a change in ______, leading to constipation.

<p>peristalsis</p> Signup and view all the answers

Chronic stress can lead to serious depletion of ______ because the body can't absorb nutrients.

<p>nutrients</p> Signup and view all the answers

Stress increases the body’s requirement of ______, depleting stores of vitamins and minerals.

<p>nutrients</p> Signup and view all the answers

Water-soluble vitamins like ______ and B vitamins are not stored in the body.

<p>C</p> Signup and view all the answers

Prolonged stress can lead to a state of ______ which affects gut health.

<p>chronic</p> Signup and view all the answers

Zinc is needed for the production of enzymes and hydrochloric acid in the ______.

<p>stomach</p> Signup and view all the answers

Bitters stimulate digestive juices via the ______ nerve.

<p>vagus</p> Signup and view all the answers

Drinking ______ before a meal stimulates stomach acid for better digestion.

<p>Apple Cider Vinegar</p> Signup and view all the answers

Prebiotics are the primary food source for ______.

<p>probiotics</p> Signup and view all the answers

Cruciferous vegetables such as cauliflower and broccoli are high in ______.

<p>prebiotics</p> Signup and view all the answers

Probiotic supplements can aid in restoring good bacteria after a course of ______.

<p>antibiotics</p> Signup and view all the answers

SIBO stands for small intestinal bacterial ______.

<p>overgrowth</p> Signup and view all the answers

______ can result in inflammation, infections, and disturbed memory.

<p>Chronic stress</p> Signup and view all the answers

The mucous of the gut lining can alter, affecting the absorption of ______.

<p>nutrients</p> Signup and view all the answers

Foods that contain probiotics are best found in ______.

<p>fermented foods</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Role of the Tongue

The tongue influences digestion through taste and emotions, impacting digestive processes.

Salivary Glands

Salivary glands produce saliva that contains enzymes like amylase to start breaking down carbohydrates and fats.

Amylase Enzyme

Amylase is an enzyme in saliva that helps convert carbohydrates into simple sugars.

Ghrelin

Ghrelin is a hormone that signals hunger from the stomach to the brain.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Leptin

Leptin is a hormone that indicates satiety or fullness to the brain after eating.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Effects of Overeating

Overeating can mute leptin signals, leading to continuous hunger and overeating patterns.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Stomach Functions

The stomach liquefies food and breaks down proteins into amino acids and fats into fatty acids.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Digestion Speed of Foods

Different foods digest at different rates; fats, proteins, and fiber digest slowly, while simple carbs digest quickly.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Fermented Foods

Foods that undergo fermentation to preserve and enhance nutrients.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Lactic Acid

A natural preservative produced during fermentation that inhibits harmful bacteria.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Lacto-Fermentation

A process where lactic acid bacteria ferment sugars into lactic acid, preserving food.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Benefits of Fermentation

Increases nutrients like Omega 3, B vitamins, and enzymes for better digestion.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Phytic Acid

A compound in legumes, grains, and nuts that inhibits mineral absorption.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Phytates

The natural form of phytic acid, used by seeds for energy but can block nutrients in humans.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Soaking and Sprouting

Methods to deactivate phytic acid and improve nutrient availability in foods.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Bone Broth

A nutrient-rich broth made from simmered bones, beneficial for gut and overall health.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Plant-Based Broths

Broths made from vegetables that are also healthy, complementing bone broth.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Probiotics

Live beneficial bacteria that support gut health, often found in fermented foods.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Gut shutdown

A condition where blood flow changes peristalsis, causing constipation.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Chronic stress effects

Long-term stress that leads to nutrient depletion and digestive issues.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Gut bacteria alteration

Changes in gut bacteria due to prolonged stress affecting digestion.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Nutrient depletion

Loss of essential nutrients in the body due to stress.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Zinc's role

Zinc is crucial for enzyme production and stomach acid release.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Bitters

Bitter herbs that stimulate digestive juices when consumed before meals.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) benefits

ACV aids digestion and helps stabilize blood sugar after meals.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)

A condition with excessive bacteria in the small intestine, causing digestive issues.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Low FODMAP diet

A dietary approach to reduce fermentable carbs to manage IBS symptoms.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Probiotic supplements

Products containing live microorganisms to restore gut flora.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Impact of stress on serotonin

Stress raises cortisol, lowering serotonin levels, affecting mood.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Detoxification interference

Inability to detoxify properly due to gut dysfunction from stress.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Digestive enzyme production

The creation of enzymes needed for breaking down food, influenced by zinc.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Diarrhoea

A condition caused by quick evacuation of intestines due to insufficient reabsorption of liquid.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Microbiota

Bacterial community in the gut that stabilizes by age 5, influencing health and mood.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Gut bacteria's role

Gut bacteria help in digestion, nutrient absorption, hormone production, and immune function.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Leaky Gut

Condition where gut lining is compromised, allowing toxins and undigested food to enter bloodstream.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Immune system and gut

The gut houses about 80% of the immune system, supporting health and pathogen defense.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Chronic Inflammation

A low-level, persistent inflammation in the body linked to various diseases.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Signs of Inflammation

The basic signs are heat, pain, redness, and swelling as part of the healing process.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Gut healing foods

Foods that aid in repairing the gut lining and restoring microbiota health.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Dietary impact on microbiota

Long-term food choices significantly affect the diversity of gut microbiota.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Factors disrupting microbiota

Antibiotics, medications, chemicals, stress, and processed foods can harm gut bacteria.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Gut and mental health

Microbiota influence neurotransmitters linked to mood and mental well-being.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Nurturing gut health

Eating fiber-rich and fermented foods while minimizing sugar helps maintain healthy gut bacteria.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Impact of antibiotics

Antibiotics can obliterate gut bacteria, necessitating time to rebuild the ecosystem.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Functions of Gut Microbiota

Microbiota help digest food, produce vitamins, and regulate weight and metabolism.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Anti-inflammatory drugs

Medications that alleviate pain but do not fix underlying issues.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Gut-Brain Axis

The connection between gut health and brain activity.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Psychobiotics

Study of how gut microbiota impacts mental health.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Vagus nerve

Nerve linking the brain and gut for communication.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Serotonin

A neurotransmitter linked to mood, appetite, and sleep.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Dopamine

A neurotransmitter responsible for motivation and reward.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Gut microbiota

The community of bacteria in the gut influencing health.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Tryptophan

An amino acid necessary for serotonin production.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Tyrosine

An amino acid essential for dopamine synthesis.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Chronic stress

Extended periods of stress affecting health, especially digestion.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Inflammation

A response that can cause pain and discomfort in the body.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Nutrient deficiency

Insufficient levels of vitamins and minerals affecting neurotransmitter function.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Omega-3 fatty acids

Healthy fats that help reduce inflammation in the body.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Villi

Small finger-like projections in the small intestine that absorb nutrients.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Small Intestine Functions

Responsible for the majority of digestion and nutrient absorption.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Duodenum

The first part of the small intestine where initial digestion occurs.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Jejunum

Middle section of the small intestine that absorbs glucose and vitamins.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Ileum

Last part of the small intestine that absorbs amino acids and fats.

Signup and view all the flashcards

MMC (Migrating Motor Complex)

A series of contractions that clean up the digestive tract when empty.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Role of Liver

Produces bile, essential for fat digestion.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Gallbladder Function

Stores and recycles bile produced by the liver.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Pancreas

Secretes enzymes that help digest proteins, fats, and carbohydrates.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Large Intestine

Absorbs water and forms waste, with a large microbiome ecosystem.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Fermentation in Colon

Bacteria break down fibers, producing short-chain fatty acids and vitamins.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Vitamin K Production

Generated by the microbiome in the large intestine.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Constipation Causes

Can be due to dehydration, lack of fiber, or other digestive issues.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Relieving Constipation

Increase fiber intake, hydration, and relaxation techniques.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Study Notes

Digestion

  • Tongue: Thoughts and emotions about food impact digestion. Consume foods perceived as delicious.
  • Salivary Glands: Saliva contains enzymes (amylase, lingual lipase) that begin carbohydrate and fat breakdown. Chew food thoroughly before swallowing.
  • Stomach: Stretching the stomach interferes with satiety signals. Chewing thoroughly allows the brain to process hunger signals. Different foods digest at different speeds (e.g., fats/proteins/fibrous foods are slowest, simple carbs are quickest). Eating slowly and mindfully allows appropriate body response.
  • Small Intestine: 90% of nutrient digestion and absorption happens here. Nutrients absorbed in the duodenum(most food types), jejunum (glucose and some vitamins), and ileum (remaining amino acids, fats, and fat-soluble vitamins). The migrating motor complex (MMC) cleans the digestive tract between meals. Avoid frequent snacking.
  • Liver & Gallbladder: Liver produces bile that aids digestion. Gallbladder stores and recirculates bile.
  • Pancreas: Pancreas secretes enzymes (amylase, lipase, proteases) for further protein, fat, and carbohydrate breakdown and sodium bicarbonate to neutralize stomach acid.
  • Large Intestine: Contains microbiome, containing thousands of bacteria, with a large variety being personally acquired. Essential for digestion. Good bacteria produce vit. K, biotin. The microbiome uses fibre and sugars to produce short-chain fatty acids. The colon balances the pH to avoid excessive acidity. The rectum signals the brain for bowel movement. Digestion takes 8-72 hours.
  • Constipation: Causes include IBS, SIBO, dehydration, enzyme/magnesium deficiencies, gallbladder removal, stress, inflammation, and emotional factors. Treat with high-fibre foods, water, probiotics, exercise, and stress reduction.
  • Diarrhoea: Caused by insufficient time for water reabsorption, excessive fibre, or food allergies. The body rapidly eliminates irritants.

Microbiota

  • Microbiota stabilises between ages 2-5, and continues to be influenced over the lifespan(puberty, pregnancy, menopause).
  • It influences food choices, energy levels, thought processes, and emotions.
  • It digests foods undegraded by the small intestine.
  • Important Influences for: vitamins, hormones, nutrients, gut lining support, efficient digestion, metabolism, weight regulation, hunger regulation, food choice decision-making, blood sugars, immune system, sleep, neurotransmitters, mental health, thyroid, overall inflammation, and several diseases.
  • Interfering factors include antibiotics/medications, environmental chemicals, diet, lifestyle, stress, processed foods, etc.

Leaky Gut

  • Good bacteria create a barrier in the gut. Damage results in holes allowing undigested particles, bacteria, and toxins entering the bloodstream. The gut lining can heal.

Gut & Immune System

  • 80% of the immune system is located in the gut. A balanced ratio of good (85%) and bad (15%) bacteria is ideal.
  • The gut microbiome educates the immune system by distinguishing microbes/pathogens and influencing responses. Nurturing good bacteria: prioritize fibre, fermented foods, and reduce sugar/processed foods.

Inflammation

  • Inflammation is the body's natural response to heal. Four signs: heat, pain, redness, swelling.
  • Chronic inflammation is a precursor to numerous diseases.
  • Avoid processed foods, sugars, refined oils, cleaning products, toxins, stress, sleep deprivation, negative thoughts, and allergies to reduce chronic inflammation. Anti-inflammatory foods and herbs include vegetables, fruits, fish, ethical & pastured produce, and spices like turmeric, garlic, and ginger.

Gut-Brain Axis (GBA)

  • Psychobiotics studies microbiota affecting the brain. The vagus nerve connects the gut and brain. Stress/anxiety in the gut is communicated to the brain and vice versa. Balanced microbiota is crucial for mood, brain activity, cognitive function, memory, learning, anxiety, depression, and more.

Neurotransmitters (NT)

  • The gut produces significantly more neurotransmitters than the brain. Serotonin and dopamine are important examples.
  • Serotonin and dopamine come from amino acids. They need all macronutrients. Supplements of vitamins/minerals and avoiding excessive amounts of coffee/alcohol are important for adequate levels.

Serotonin

  • "Happy hormone" impacting mood, behaviour, digestion, appetite, sleep, memory, and sexual desire. Synthesized from tryptophan, which requires sufficient B vitamins (especially B12 and B6). Consume complex carbohydrates alongside protein to increase serotonin levels—in combination with the above.

Dopamine

  • "Motivational hormone" impacting focus, concentration, reward, pleasure, muscle control, attention, learning, memory, and mood. Requires adequate tyrosine levels, which are found in meat, dairy, almonds, sesame, and avocados, and antioxidants. Balance is key.

Stress & Digestion

  • Chronic stress overwhelms the body, particularly the gut.
  • Stress response alters gut environment, leading to a shift in the microbiota, leaky gut and inflammation and compromises nutrient absorption and leads to many health issues. Stress elevates cortisol and lowers serotonin, impacting immunity, and impacting digestion. (Constipation / Diarrhea).

Natural Digestive Aids

  • Zinc: Essential for enzyme production and stomach acid. Deficiency can damage intestinal walls, negatively impacting nutrient absorption. Bodies don't store zinc well.
  • Bitters: Herbs stimulate digestive juices, increasing saliva, bile, and enzyme release. Consumed before meals for the most benefit.
  • Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV): Diluted ACV stimulates stomach acid, improves nutrient absorption, regulates blood sugar (due to acetic acid), and potentially supports probiotic colonization. Combine with baking soda for an alkalizing effect.

Prebiotics & Probiotics

  • Prebiotics: Fiber sources (onions, leeks, garlic, bananas, berries, etc.) that feed probiotics.
  • Probiotics: Beneficial bacteria that ferment prebiotics, creating vitamins, hormones, and enzymes. Types of probiotics include lactobacillus, bifidobacterium, acidophilus. Supplements can be helpful but a balanced microbiome is crucial.
  • Fermented Foods: Support good bacteria and maintain balanced levels. Avoid when digestive tract is compromised.

Phytic Acid

  • Phytic acid (phytates) is a natural component in legumes, grains, and nuts, inhibiting nutrient absorption. Soaking, fermenting, and sprouting legumes, grains, and nuts deactivate phytic acid.

Benefits of Bone Broth

  • Bone broth contains essential amino acids, minerals, gelatin, collagen, and glutamine, supporting overall digestion, gut health, and mucosal lining, as well as supporting other aspects of health. Consuming bone broth (hommade) can be a beneficial factor in gut repair, and generally promote overall physical support.

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Quiz Team

Description

Explore the intricate processes involved in digestion, from the role of the tongue and salivary glands to the functions of the stomach and intestines. Understand how nutrients are absorbed and the importance of mindful eating for optimal digestion. Test your knowledge on how various organs contribute to the digestive process.

More Like This

Digestive System Overview
8 questions

Digestive System Overview

DetachableIodine1529 avatar
DetachableIodine1529
Digestive System Overview
47 questions

Digestive System Overview

WellRegardedFantasticArt2473 avatar
WellRegardedFantasticArt2473
Human Digestive System Quiz
5 questions
L'apparato digerente: Struttura e Funzioni
8 questions
Use Quizgecko on...
Browser
Browser