Sci 241 - Human Digestion

Human Digestion

SCI 241

The first process in the launch of the digestive procedure starts with the salivary glands. These glands are set in motion at the very vision and aroma of food. As soon as the food overtakes the mouth, the teeth, tongue, and salivary glands "moisten and break down the food, now called bolus, so that it can go down the esophagus" (Human Digestion Activity, 2010).

The bolus proceeds forth to the stomach, "it is here that it mixes with acid". Then the food takes on a partial-fluid form called "chyme", which is the partially digested food. "Chyme typically clears from the stomach within 2 to 6 hours" (Human Digestion Activity, 2010). After being expelled from the stomach the chyme enters the small intestines, this is where nourishment is taken in.

The liver produces bile (yellowish green substance) and is stored in the gallbladder where it plays an important function in soaking up fat. "Digestive enzymes and bicarbonate secretions from the pancreas aid also aid in the digestive process" (Human Digestion Activity, 2010).

Everything not absorbed by the small intestine will then enter into the large intestines, which has a make- up of the "colon and rectum". In the colon, "there is even more absorption of water, vitamins, and minerals "(Human Digestion Activity, 2010).

The concluding stages of the digestive process is the elimination process, the rest of the materials that are not absorbed are then eradicated from the body from the anus in the form of feces (Human Digestion Activity, 2010).

REFERENCES:

Human Digestion Activity (2010) SCI 241 Week 2. Retrieved on May 20,2010 from: http://corptrain.phoenix.edu/axia/sci241/sci241-digestivetract.html