Fat molecules are the source from which our bodies draw energy. Fats are broken down into a watery fluid of the intestinal cavity. The liver then produces bile that acts as a natural detergent to dissolve fat. This allows enzymes to break large fat molecules into smaller molecules, including cholesterol and fatty acids. Bile then combines with these and moves them into cells of the mucosa where they are formed into large molecules that pass into vessels called lymphatics, located near the small intestine. The small vessels carry the converted fat to the veins of the chest while blood moves fat to storage areas throughout the body.
Control of the Digestive Process
The digestive system is a fascinating part of the human body. Not only does it convert food, but it contains its own regulators. The hormones that control the digestive tract are produced and released by the mucosa in the small intestine and stomach. These are then released into the blood of the digestive system, and then to the heart, through the arteries and back to the digestive system. Hormones that control the digestive tract are cholecyslokinin (CCK,) gastrin and secretin.
CCK
CCK aids the pancreas in growth and in the production of pancreatic juices. It also aids in emptying the gallbladder.
Gastrin
This hormone aids the production of acids that dissolve and digest certain foods. It is necessary for healthy growth of the colon, the stomach lining and the lining of the small intestine.
Secretin
Secretin aids the pancreas in sending out digestive juices that are rich in bicarbonate. It helps the stomach produce pepsin, which is an enzyme that our body uses to digest protein. Secretin stimulates the liver and causes it to produce bile.
Appetite Hormones
Additional body hormones found in the digestive tract regulates are appetite. They are Ghrelin and Peptide YY.
Ghrelin
Ghrelin is produced in the upper intestine and stomach when there is no food in the digestive tract. Ghrelin is the hormone that stimulates our sense of hunger.