unit 3 review Flashcards
hydrochloric acid in the stomach is responsible for?
activating the enzyme pepsin
NOT breaking down carbs (starts in the mouth)
NOT emulsifying fats
which part of the digestive system is primarily responsible for nutrient absorption?
small intestine
NOT large intestine or stomach or esophagus
cholecystokinin (CCK) has which of the following effects?
stimulates the gallbladder to release bile
NO decreases stomach acidity
NO inhibits enzyme production in the pancreas
NOT slows down peristalsis in the esophagus
bicarbonate is important in the small intestine because it:
neutralizes stomach acid
small intestines cannot handle that stomach acid so it has to neutralize it so it doesn’t burn etc
the connector piece from the stomach to small intestine is the duodenum
NOT breaks down proteins
NO emulsifies fats
NOT digests carbs
which of the following is NOT a function of the villi/microvilli in the small intestine?
it does not produce hydrochloric acid
it does secrete digestive enzymes. it does increase surface area for absorption. it does transport nutrients into the bloodstream
the primary role of the large intestine in digestion is to:
absorb water and electrolytes
NOT absorb most nutrients (small intestine), NOT produce bile, NOT secrete digestive enzymes
the gut microbiome is crucial for
synthesizing vitamins and aiding digestion
NOT producing hydrochloric acid, NOT emulsifying dietary fats, NOT producing pepsinogen
what is a prebiotic?
a non-digestible food ingredient that promotes the growth of beneficial microorganisms in the intestines
what best describes a probiotic?
the beneficial bacteria that are introduced to the gut through supplements or fermented foods
what are postbiotics?
metabolic byproducts from microbes that can have health benefits
post / byproducts. butyrate and vitamin K2 are byproducts of those microbes
what is a potential outcome of hypochlorhydria
nutrient malabsorption issues
what dysfunction can arise from problems with bile production or flow
fat digestion issues and contribution to conditions like SIBO or dysbiosis
how does stress impact digestion?
by inhibiting many parts of the digestive system and disrupting normal digestive function
stress shuts down parasympathetic state
then stress
breaking down foods in mouth
low HCL
how do antioxidants support the immune system in the context of digestion?
by neutralizing harmful free radicals and reducing oxidative stress in the gut
what is the role of gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) in digestion?
it acts as the body’s first line of immune defense in the gut, identifying and combating pathogens
how can an imbalance in the gut microbiota affect the immune system?
by leading to an overactive immune response that can result in inflammation and autoimmune diseases
the presence of which substance is crucial for the beneficial effects of beneficial bacteria on the immune system?
short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) produced by the fermentation of dietary fibers
which nutrient is essential for the production of thyroid hormones?
iodine
which nutrient is essential for the synthesis of steroid hormones, which are crucial for reproductive health?
cholesterol
which of the following digestive disorders is associated with increased rates of male infertility?
inflammatory bowel disease
how can improving digestive health potentially benefit those with reproductive disorders?
by enhancing nutrient absorption, reducing inflammation, and supporting hormonal balance
how does the gut-brain axis influence mental health?
by enabling the gut microbiome to produce neurotransmitters and other compounds that can affect brain function and mood
serotonin is primary neurotransmitter produced in gut
digestive bitters are known as:
digestive stimulants
which of the following is considered a cofactor that supports digestive function by aiding in enzyme activity?
zinc
NOT fiber, probiotics, or carbs
