Human Body and Digestion Quiz

Digestive System

• Pancreatic amylase is the enzyme responsible for breaking down polysaccharides into maltose and simple sugars in the small intestine.
• Mechanical breakdown of polysaccharides begins in the mouth with chewing, and salivary amylase initiates the breakdown of complex carbohydrates.

Nutrition and Health

• Normal BMI range for adults is 18.5 to 24.9.
• Parents/caregivers should start brushing their children's teeth as soon as the first tooth erupts.
• Sugar causes tooth decay by providing a food source for bacteria in the mouth, which metabolize sugars and produce acids that lead to cavities and decay.
• Tooth- and health-friendly foods for children include fresh fruits, vegetables, dairy products, nuts, and seeds.

Hormones and Sugar

• Insulin is the hormone released during hyperglycemia (high blood sugar levels) to regulate blood glucose levels.

Reproduction and Sexuality

• The nurse should recommend introducing solid foods to newborns at around 6 months, not 3 months.

Energy and Metabolism

• The pathway of a bolus from ingestion to the stomach involves mechanical digestion in the mouth, mixing with saliva containing amylase, and traveling down the esophagus via peristalsis.
• GORD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease) symptoms include epigastric pain, heartburn, and discomfort due to stomach acid flowing back into the esophagus, causing irritation and inflammation of the esophageal lining.
• Losec decreases acid production in the stomach by inhibiting proton pumps, reducing acid secretion.
• Proton pump inhibitor medications include omeprazole and lansoprazole.

APGAR Score

• The APGAR score measures a newborn's Appearance, Pulse, Grimace response, Activity, and Respiration.