Ingestion

Definition

Ingestion is the process of taking food, liquids, or other substances into the body through the mouth. It marks the beginning of the digestive process.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ingestion involves not only eating and drinking but also swallowing.
2. Saliva plays a crucial role in ingestion by moistening food and initiating digestion with enzymes.
3. Ingestion is controlled by both voluntary and involuntary muscle actions.
4. Proper ingestion is essential for ensuring that nutrients are available for absorption later in the digestive process.
5. Disorders affecting ingestion can lead to nutritional deficiencies and impact overall gastrointestinal wellness.

Review Questions

• What role does saliva play in the process of ingestion?
• How is ingestion controlled in the human body?
• Why is proper ingestion critical for nutrient absorption?

Related terms

Digestion:

The mechanical and chemical breakdown of food into smaller components that can be absorbed into the bloodstream.

Absorption:

The process by which nutrients from digested food are taken up into the bloodstream from the intestines.

Peristalsis:

A series of wave-like muscle contractions that move food through the digestive tract.