Title: The Digestive System - IFFGD
Headings: The Digestive System
The Digestive System
Why is digestion important
How is food digested
Movement of Food Through the System
The Small Intestine/Bowel
The Large Intestine/Bowel, or Colon
Production of Digestive Juices
Absorption and Transport of Nutrients
Carbohydrates
Protein
Fats
Vitamins
How is the digestive process controlled?
Hormone Regulators
Nerve Regulators
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Content: Duodenum – The chyme first enters into the duodenum where it is exposed to secretions that aid digestion. The secretions include bile salts, enzymes, and bicarbonate. The bile salts from the liver help digest fats and fat-soluble vitamins (Vitamin A, D, E, and K). Pancreatic enzymes help digest carbohydrates and fats. Bicarbonate from the pancreas neutralizes the acid from the stomach. Jejunum – The chyme is then further transited down into the second or middle part of the small intestine, the jejunum. Mainly in the first half of the jejunum, the majority (about 90%) of nutrient absorption occurs involving proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Ileum – The ileum is the last section of the small intestine and leads to the large intestine or colon. The ileum mainly absorbs water, bile salts, and vitamin B12. The ileocecal valve is a one-way valve located between the ileum and the cecum, which is the first portion of the colon.