Small Intestine

The small intestine measures about 7m in an average adult and consists of the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum. Both the bile and pancreatic ducts open into the duodenum together. The small intestine, because of its structure, provides a vast lining through which further absorption takes place. There is a large lymph and blood supply to this area, ready to transport nutrients to the rest of the body. Digestion in the small intestine relies on its own secretions plus those from the pancreas, liver, and gall bladder.

The Pancreas
The Pancreas is connected to the duodenum via two ducts and has two main functions: 1. To produce enzymes to aid the process of digestion 2. To release insulin directly into the blood stream for the purpose of controlling blood sugar levels Enzymes suspended in the very alkaline pancreatic juices include amylase for breaking down starch into sugar, and lipase which, when activated by bile salts, helps to break down fat. The hormone insulin is produced by specialised cells, the islets of Langerhans, and plays an important role in controlling the level of sugar in the blood and how much is allowed to pass to the cells.

The Liver
The liver, which acts as a large reservoir and filter for blood, occupies the upper right portion of abdomen and has several important functions: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. Secretion of bile to the gall bladder Carbohydrate, protein and fat metabolism The storage of glycogen ready for conversion into glucose when energy is required. Storage of vitamins Phagocytosis - ingestion of worn out red and white blood cells, and some bacteria

The Gall Bladder

The gall bladder stores and concentrates bile which emulsifies fats making them easier to break down by the pancreatic juices.

The Large Intestine

The large intestine averages about 1.5m long and comprises the caecum, appendix, colon, and rectum. After food is passed into the caecum a reflex action in response to the pressure causes the contraction of the ileo-colic valve preventing any food returning to the ileum. Here most of the water is absorbed, much of which was not ingested, but secreted by digestive glands further up the digestive tract. The colon is divided into the ascending, transverse and descending colons, before reaching the anal canal where the indigestible foods are expelled from the body.

Effect of exercise on the digestive system

Most exercise has a positive effect on the digestive system helping to quell appetite and increase metabolism. Some endurance events sometimes cause competitors to have an upset stomach and diarrhoea.