Essay
2023 Applied Science Extended Certificate - D* Grade Outstanding Assignment
- Institution
- PEARSON (PEARSON)
EXPLORE THE PHYSIOLOGY OF THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM AND THE USE OF CORRECTIVE TREATMENTS FOR DIETARY RELATED DISEASES
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Unit 8: Physiology of Human Body Systems Assignment CEXPLORE THE PHYSIOLOGY OF THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM AND
THE USE OF CORRECTIVE TREATMENTS FOR DIETARY
RELATED DISEASES
Course: BTEC Extended Certificate Applied Science Unit 8C
Abstract
The digestive system is a complex physiological process that involves multiple organs
and systems. The primary role of the digestive system is to break down food into smaller
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, Unit 8: Physiology of Human Body Systems Assignment C
particles and absorb nutrients, which are essential for the growth and maintenance of bodily
functions.
The human digestive system comprises various organs that work together in a
coordinated manner to extract nutrients from ingested food. Understanding the physiology of
the digestive systems requires an investigation into these individual parts, including their
structure and function.
The mouth is responsible for initial digestion by mechanically breaking down food
through chewing while enzymes present in saliva start chemical breakdowns at this stage as
well (Andrews et al., 2022). Additionally, saliva contains lysozymes which provide
antibacterial properties protecting against gum disease and tooth decay (Zhang et al., 2022).
The esophagus serves as a conduit between the mouth and stomach mucosa where it's
essential for digestion to occur effectively in both areas; otherwise, miscommunication leads
to difficulties within body health overall (Wang et al., 2021). The stomach produces gastric
acid HCl that breaks down proteins via hydrolysis along with pepsinogen converted into
active enzyme pepsin further digesting protein causing nutrient bioavailability increase.
The small intestine has three segments: duodenum, jejunum, ileum collectively
secreting hormones like cholecystokinin or secretin aiding pancreatic enzymes secretion
needed for lipid absorption via bile emulsification from gallbladder stored bile salts
ultimately
leading towards nutrient absorption (Głowacka et al., 2020).
This area primarily absorbs water plus electrolytes while converting waste into feces
via bacterial fermentation of remaining carbohydrates and proteins delivering essential
Vitamin K and B to the body (Andrews et al., 2022).
The pancreas produces enzymes that aid digestion, including amylase for
carbohydrate breakdown lipase for lipid processing and proteases for protein hydrolysis. The
liver is responsible for bile production aiding emulsification of fats while the gall bladder
stores bile salt releases into small intestine upon fat ingestion (Wang et al., 2021).
Background
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, Unit 8: Physiology of Human Body Systems Assignment C
The digestive system is one of the most important systems of our body. It plays a very
crucial role in maintenance of our body and overall health. The digestive system is
responsible for breaking down food into simple nutrients that our bodies can easily absorb
and use. The process starts with the mouth and ends with the anus. The function of the
digestive system is to break down food, absorb nutrients, and eliminate waste.
However, this complex system can experience various disorders which may lead to
dietary related diseases. This report will explore the physiology of the digestive system
focusing on different parts of the gastrointestinal tract.
It will evaluate, explain, and compare how Crohn’s Disease, a dietary-related
disorder affects the normal functioning of the digestive system.
It will further explain how Crohn’s Disease leads to nutritional deficiency and loss of
good general health. This report will also include an evaluation on the use and impact of
medical treatments and interventions to treat Crohn’s Disease e.g., Lifestyle/dietary changes,
surgery to treat Crohn’s Disease.
Introduction
The digestive system is where food is broken down into smaller soluble molecules
and absorbed into the blood stream or lymph system and involves several organs. The
pancreas, liver, and gallbladder are further auxiliary organs. Even though food does not pass
through these structures, they play a crucial function in the secretion of chemicals that
facilitate digestion. It might also take care of some digestive by products prior to their
absorption into bodily tissues. The diagrams below detail the location of each part of the
digestive system.
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, Unit 8: Physiology of Human Body Systems Assignment C
Oral Cavity (Mouth)
Consumption, mechanical
processing with accessory organs
(teeth and tongue), moistening, and
mixing with secretions of the
salivary glands
Pharynx
Materials are propelled into
the oesophagus by muscle.
Oesophagus
Material movement to the
stomach
Stomach
Materials are broken down
chemically by acids and
enzymes, and mechanically
by muscle contractions.
Small Intestine
Water, organic substrates,
vitamins, and ions are
digested
and absorbed by enzymes.
Large Intestine
preparation for elimination
through dehydration and
compaction of indigestible
Figure 1: Major Organs of the Digestive Tract (https://o.quizlet.com/tlc1EPup.4cfMHuU-ZQhgg.jpg).
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