NUTRITION AND ABSORPTION/
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS/ GRADED
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Absorption
Correct Definition – The process of nutrients being taken up in the
intestines.
Sphincter Malfunction
Correct Definition – This leads to the development of acid reflux disease.
Chyme
Correct Definition – A semi-liquid mixture formed when food is combined
with gastric juices.
The function of the Stomach
Correct Definition – Serves as a temporary holding area for food. It
blends food with gastric secretions, regulates the gradual release of food
into the intestines, produces a substance necessary for vitamin B12
absorption, and eliminates most harmful bacteria.
Gastric Juices
Correct Definition – Digestive fluids in the Stomach include hydrochloric
acid (HCl), pepsin, and mucus. HCl activates pepsin to break down
proteins. In children, two extra enzymes—renin (for milk protein) and
gastric lipase (for butterfat)—are also present.
Salivary Amylase
Correct Definition – An enzyme in saliva that begins the breakdown of
starch in the mouth.
Duodenum
Correct Definition – The initial part of the small intestine where chyme
enters through the pyloric sphincter.
Secretin
Correct Definition – A hormone released when food enters the small
intestine, prompting the pancreas to secrete sodium bicarbonate to
neutralize the acidic chyme.
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Cholecystokinin (CCK)
Correct Definition – Stimulates the gallbladder to discharge bile to aid in
fat digestion.
Pancreatic Proteases
Correct Definition – Protein-digesting enzymes produced by the
pancreas.
Pancreatic Amylase
Correct Definition – Enzyme that transforms starch into simple sugars.
Pancreatic Lipase
Correct Definition – Breaks down fats into fatty acids and glycerol.
Small Intestine and Digestion
Most nutrient absorption happens here. It also digests sugars like
lactose, maltose, and sucrose.
Peptidases
Enzymes that break down proteins into amino acids.
Colon (Large Intestine)
Absorbs water and minerals from unprocessed food. Produces
volatile fatty acids.
Volatile Fatty Acids
Includes acetate, propionate, and butyrate. Absorbed in the colon
and serve as energy sources.
Vitamins
Organic substances help the body use energy from fats,
carbohydrates, and proteins. They don't cure illnesses.
Fat-Soluble Vitamin Deficiency
Common in individuals with chronic malabsorption conditions like
cystic fibrosis, celiac disease, and Crohn's disease.
Fat-Soluble Vitamins
Include A, D, E, and K. They are not easily destroyed during
cooking but can be lost when consumed with mineral oil. After
absorption, they're transported via lipoproteins. Excess intake is
more likely due to their storage in the body.