ASGE Recognized Industry Associate (ARIA) Training Program OPEN | March 2024-GI Tract in Health_Liver_Gallbladder

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The gastrointestinal tract is a complex system comprising various organs such as the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, and digestive tract. The liver is a vital organ located in the right upper abdomen, responsible for over 500 essential functions, including synthesis, storage, and breakdown of substances like glucose, proteins, and toxins. The liver produces bile, a greenish-yellow fluid stored in the gallbladder and released during digestion to aid in fat absorption. The pancreas, an 8-inch-long glandular organ, plays a crucial role in digestion by producing enzymes that break down fats, carbohydrates, and proteins, as well as hormones like insulin and glucagon for regulating blood sugar levels. Secretin, released by the duodenum in response to stomach acid, stimulates the pancreas to produce bicarbonate to neutralize the acid. Overall, the GI tract is responsible for the breakdown and absorption of food, water, and minerals, coordinated motility, and waste storage before elimination. This system highlights the intricate anatomy and physiology of the digestive process, showcasing its critical role in maintaining overall health.

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Juan Carlos Bucobo, MD, FASGE

Keywords

gastrointestinal tract

liver functions

bile production

pancreas enzymes

digestive system

duodenum secretin

blood sugar regulation

food absorption

motility coordination

digestive process