NUTRITN 230 Lecture Notes - Lecture 7: Ileocecal Valve, Vitamin K, Cecum
Document Summary
Materials not absorbed in the si pass through the ileocecal valve into the. Li ~ 5 feet long, 2 diameter (large) Colon: cecum, ascending colon, transverse colon, descent sigmoid colon. ~300-500 species of bacteria reside in the li (mix of beneficial and pathogenic) Keeps growth of pathogenic bacteria under control. Synthesize vitamin k, some b vitamins and small amounts of fatty acids. Ferment some of the fibers and starches not digested in the si. The right mix of intestinal bacteria important for immune function, proper growth and development of colon cells and optimal intestinal motility and transit time. Disruption of normal balance can cause vomiting, diarrhea and dehydration. Probiotics: live bacteria that when consume live temporarily in the colon and confer health benefits on the host. Prebiotic: substance that serves as food for beneficial bacteria. Gi tract receives ~ 10 liters of water/day (3 from diet and 7 from intestinal secretions) Si absorbs ~90% water and li absorbs the rest.
