Absorption
The process by which nutrient molecules pass through the wall of the digestive system into the blood
Bile
A substance produced by the liver that breaks up fat particles.
Chyme
the pulpy acidic fluid that passes from the stomach to the small intestine, consisting of gastric juices and partly digested food.
Enzyme
A type of protein that speeds up a chemical reaction in a living thing
Gastric juices in stomach
hydrochloric acid, enzymes, mucus
Macronutrients
The six key elements that organisms need in relatively large amounts: nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and sulfur.
Mastication
the process of chewing
Bolus
A term used to describe food after it has been chewed and mixed with saliva
Metabolism
the combination of chemical reactions through which an organism builds up or breaks down materials
Micronutrients
vitamins, minerals, water
Peristalsis
Involuntary waves of muscle contraction that keep food moving along in one direction through the digestive system.
Villi
Tiny finger-shaped structures that cover the inner surface of the small intestine and provide a large surface area through which digested food is absorbed
gastrointestinal tract
The stomach and intestine as a functional unit.
feces
solid wastes; stool