Page 24 - 86 human physiology part-2

The Gastrointestinal System

Glossary

Amebiasis
An inflammation if the intestines caused by infestation with Entameba histolytica (a type of
ameba) and characterized by frequent loose stools flecked with blood and mucus

Amylase
An enzyme produces in the pancreas and salivary glands that help in the digestions of starches.

Bile
A bitter, alkaline, brownish-yellow or greenish-yellow fluid that is secreted by the liver, stored in
the gallbladder, and discharged into the duodenum and aids in the emulsification, digestion, and
absorption of fats. Also called gall.

Biotin
Biotin is used in cell growth, the production of fatty acids, metabolism of fats, and amino acids. It
plays a role in the Krebs Cycle. Biotin is also helpful in maintaining a steady blood sugar level. It
is often recommended for strengthening hair and nails.

B12
A vitamin important for the normal formation of red blood cells and the health of the nerve
tissues. Undetected and untreated B12 deficiency can lead to anemia and permanent nerve and
brain damage

Candida Albicans
Found in animals and in man. Has been isolated from the skin and mucosa of man, but has also
been recovered from leaves, flowers, water, and soil. Reported to be allergenic. A common cause
of superficial infection, oral and vaginal infection, sepsis, and disseminated disease. Cells from
the organism are usually not airborne and are considered to be normal component of the flora of
the mouth and other mucous membranes on the body.

Chemical digestion
Is a chemical breakdown of food when being in the mouth (oral cavity). Is the digestive
secretions of saliva that moistens food and introduces gastric juices and enzymes that are
produced in the stimulation to certain macronutrients, such as, carbohydrates. In this, the mouth
saliva carries an enzyme called amylase for breaking down carbohydrates.

Cholecystokinin (CCK)
Cholecystokinin (also called pancreozymin), this is a hormone in the small intestinal cells
(intestinal mucosa) that is produced in response to food. This hormone regulates the release of
secretions of many organs that aid digestion, such as, bicarbonate from the pancreas to reduce the
acidity of digestive juices like the chyme that enters the small intestine form the stomach that
contains hydrochloric acid (HCL).

Chylomicrons
The lipoproteins first formed after absorption of lipids form food.

Chyme
The thick semi fluid mass of partly digested food that is passed from the stomach to the

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