Digestive System PDF

Digestive System Functions Digestion: process of breaking down foods into molecules the body can use 1. Stores and digests food 2. Absorbs nutrients 3. Excretes (eliminates) waste Gastrointestinal (GI) tract: primary organs A. Mouth hard palate: front of roof, bone...

Digestive System Functions Digestion: process of breaking down foods into molecules the body can use 1. Stores and digests food 2. Absorbs nutrients 3. Excretes (eliminates) waste Gastrointestinal (GI) tract: primary organs A. Mouth hard palate: front of roof, bone soft palate: back of roof, cartilage. Chemical digestion: saliva ○ Salivary glands: B. Esophagus Muscular tube located behind the trachea Epiglottis: flap of tissue covers trachea during swallow C. Stomach Holds food Begins mechanical and chemical digestion D. Small Intestine 21-foot long tube Projections called villi increase surface area Cecum Connects to intestines Helps break down cellulose (fiber) E. Large Intestine Absorption of water solidifies material to be eliminated as feces Vitamins produced by bacteria are absorbed Secondary Organs E. Liver Top of abdominal cavity, Produces and secretes bile (digestion of fats) Filters blood, breaks down toxic substances, stores excess sugars F. Gallbladder Sac-like Under the liver Stores and concentrates bile Releases bile into the small intestine G. Pancreas Located behind the stomach Cottage cheese like Secretes enzymes into the small intestine that help break down nutrients neutralize stomach acid Overview https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_QYwscALNng