Chyme

Chyme is a semifluid mixture of gastric contents and digestive juices that is ejected from the stomach into the small intestine. It is formed in the stomach as a result of the mechanical and chemical digestion of food. Chyme – Definition Gastric Glands and FAQs.

Digestion in Mouth

When food enters the mouth, the salivary glands produce saliva. The saliva contains enzymes that begin to break down the food into smaller pieces. The food is then swallowed and travels down the esophagus to the stomach.

Gastric Glands

The gastric glands are located in the stomach and produce gastric juice, which contains hydrochloric acid and enzymes that help to digest food. The cells of the gastric glands are arranged in small, finger-like projections called tubules. The tubules secret the gastric juice into the lumen (opening) of the stomach.

Digestion in the Stomach

• The stomach is a muscular, J-shaped organ that is located in the upper part of the abdomen. The stomach break down food into smaller pieces. That can be absorbed by the body.
• The stomach begins to digest food by secreting a digestive enzyme called pepsin. Pepsin breaks down proteins into smaller peptides. The stomach also secretes hydrochloric acid and a digestive hormone called gastrin. Hydrochloric acid helps to break down food into smaller pieces, while gastrin stimulates the release of more pepsin.

Digestion in the Small Intestine

• The small intestine is the longest and most coiled part of the digestive system. It is about 18 feet long in adults. The small intestine is responsible for the final stages of digestion and absorption of food.
• The small intestine is divided into the duodenum, the jejunum, and the ileum. The duodenum is the first section of the small intestine. The jejunum and ileum are the sections that absorb the most nutrients.
• The small intestine also contains glands that produce digestive juices. The digestive juices contain enzymes that break down the food into smaller pieces. The smaller pieces can then be absorbed into the blood stream.

Chyme – Definition Gastric Glands and FAQs.