Lesson 2.4.3 The Small Intestine Flashcards
How long is small intestine?
20 feet or 6 meters.
What is the function of the small intestine?
It is charged with the task of unlocking and absorbing micronutrients from macronutrients.
What supports the digestive enzymes in consumed food?
Enzymatic function in the small intestine is supported by the enzymes derived from consumed food.
How long does the small intestine take to perform its tasks in digestion.
Approximately 3 hours.
Which digestive organs support the small intestine?
The small intestine, with the aid of the pancreas, liver, and gallbladder.
What are proteins broken down to?
Proteins break down into amino acids.
What are carbohydrates reduced to?
Simple sugars.
What is produced by the breakdown of fats?
Fatty acids.
Describe the nature of the pancreatic secretions.
The pancreas, nestled below the stomach, contributes alkaline pancreatic juices necessary for the successful completion of the digestive process. These juices contain numerous enzymes.
What happens if fats have been eaten?
If fats have been eaten, the gallbladder releases stored bile.
How does bile perform?
It is a fat emulsifier that separates fat into small droplets so that pancreatic enzymes can more easily break them down for absorption.
Is bile an enzyme?
No, bile is produced by the liver and is not really an enzyme but rather a fat emulsifier.
What is the role of the liver?
The liver plays a key role in the metabolism of fats and proteins. It also regulates blood clotting and produces cholesterol, the precursor substance required for steroid hormone synthesis. As a blood cleanser, the liver breaks down remnants of hormones, medications, alcohol, and other toxic substances, rendering them harmless.
Where is insulin produced?
The pancreas.
What is the function of insulin?
The hormone insulin is necessary for the cells to use glucose, a simple sugar.
