Absorption
The process by which nutrient molecules pass through the wall of the digestive system into the blood
Bile
a bitter greenish-brown alkaline fluid that aids digestion and is secreted by the liver and stored in the gallbladder.
Chyme
the pulpy acidic fluid that passes from the stomach to the small intestine, consisting of gastric juices and partly digested food.
Enzyme
a substance produced by a living organism that acts as a catalyst to bring about a specific biochemical reaction.
Gastric juices
Secretions from the stomach lining that contain hydrochloric acid and pepsin, an enzyme that digests protein.
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 small rounded mass of a substance, especially of chewed food at the moment of swallowing.
Metabolism
the chemical processes that occur within a living organism in order to maintain life.
Micronutrient
vitamins and minerals
Peristalsis
the involuntary constriction and relaxation of the muscles of the intestine or another canal, creating wavelike movements that push the contents of the canal forward.
Villi
Fingerlike extensions of the intestinal mucosa that increase the surface area for absorption
Gastrointestinal (GI) tract
a long, muscular tube consisting of several organs: the mouth, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, and rectum
Feces
solid wastes; stool