MEDT200 Lecture Notes - Lecture 6: Esophagus, Soft Palate, Subclavian Vein

• School: University of Delaware
• Department: Medical Laboratory Sciences
• Course: MEDT200
• Professor: Mc Lane Mary Ann

Document Summary

Three main functions: digestion (mainly stomach and small intestine, absorption (mainly small/large intestine, elimination (mainly large intestine) Food is broken down and travels through the gastrointestinal tract. Digestion of enzymes aid conversion of complex nutrients into simpler molecules. Water soluble digested nutrients pass into bloodstream through the walls of the small intestine. Lipid soluble nutrients are absorbed through the intestinal lymphatic system into the thoracic duct which empties into the bloodstream at the left subclavian vein. Nutrients travel to all cells of the body. Cells burn nutrients to release energy stored in food. Body eliminates solid waste materials that cannot be absorbed into the bloodstream. Wastes pass out of the body through the anus. Organs of the digestive system: oral cavity. When swallowing a flap of tissue (epiglottis) covers the trachea to prevent food from entering: esophagus. Peristalsis involuntary contraction of muscles to move a bolus toward the stomach: stomach.