Chapter 4: Digestion and Nutrition
- Page ID
- 72669
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- 4.1: Digestion and Absorption in the Gastrointestinal Tract (GI tract)
- The breakdown of complex macromolecules in foods to absorbable components is accomplished by the digestive system. These components are processed by cells throughout the body into energy or are used as building blocks. The digestive system is composed of the mouth, pharynx, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine (or colon), rectum, and anus. There are four steps in the digestion process: ingestion, the breakdown of food, nutrient absorption, and elimination of indigestible food.
- 4.3: Nutrients Are Essential for Organ Function
- Metabolic homeostasis occurs when the amount of nutrients consumed matches the energy required to carry out life’s biological processes. The circulatory system transports nutrients to cells and transports wastes from them. The essential minerals sodium, potassium, calcium, and chloride, and the macronutrients protein and carbohydrates, are required for central nervous system function. Fat is also critical for central nervous system function (see the Discussion Starter below).
Thumbnail: Woman eating fries. (Unslash License; Karsten Winegeart via Unsplash)