Human Body Systems: Digestion, Circulation, and Respiration

Classified in Biology

Written on in English with a size of 3.04 KB

The Digestive System

Humans need to consume a range of foods from which they obtain the necessary materials and energy for their bodily functions. The body requires proteins, lipids, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals.

Understanding Nutrition

Nutrition is the biological function through which living organisms acquire and transform matter and energy from their environment. We can distinguish three main phases in nutrition:

  • Ingestion
  • Digestion
  • Absorption

The digestive system is responsible for transforming food. This process occurs through various parts of the body:

  • Mouth
  • Pharynx
  • Esophagus
  • Stomach
  • Small Intestine
  • Large Intestine
  • Anus

Common Dental Diseases

  • Gingivitis
  • Periodontitis (Pyorrhea)
  • Plaque
  • Cavities

Diseases of the Digestive System

  • Constipation and Diarrhea
  • Peptic Ulcer
  • Appendicitis
  • Gastritis

Circulatory and Respiratory Systems

The circulatory system's primary function is to transport nutrients, hormones, and waste products to and from the body's cells.

The respiratory system is responsible for supplying gaseous nutrients (oxygen) and removing waste gases (carbon dioxide).

Components of the Circulatory System

The human circulatory system is a closed transport system, with blood as the medium. It is composed of:

  • The Heart: The main pump, formed by four chambers (two atria and two ventricles).
  • Blood Vessels: Arteries, veins, and capillaries.

Arteries

Arteries are the vessels that carry blood away from the heart to the cells of every body part.

Veins

Veins are the vessels that return blood to the heart.

The Respiratory System

It is responsible for the exchange of gases with the external air, expelling gases rich in carbon dioxide and taking in oxygen. It is formed by the lungs and the respiratory pathways, which include:

  • Nostrils
  • Pharynx
  • Larynx
  • Trachea
  • Bronchi

The Lungs

The lungs are constituted by a spongy mass formed by the bronchioles and pulmonary alveoli.

Respiratory System Function

The functioning of the respiratory system involves inspiration (inhalation) and expiration (exhalation).

Common Circulatory System Diseases

  • Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Arterial pressure exerted by the blood on the walls of the arteries.
  • Varicose Veins: Inflammation of veins.

Common Respiratory System Diseases

  • Bronchitis: Inflammation of the lining of the bronchi, often caused by infection.
  • Common Cold: An infection typically caused by a virus.
  • Pneumonia: An acute pulmonary infection, generally of bacterial origin.

Related entries: