Digestion & Gut Health Flashcards

Which short-chain fatty acid, produced by bacterial fermentation of fiber, is the primary fuel source for colonocytes?

Answer: Butyrate

Butyrate supplies most of the energy colon cells need and supports the integrity of the gut lining.

Which nutrient's absorption depends on intrinsic factor secreted by the stomach's parietal cells?

Answer: Vitamin B12

Intrinsic factor binds vitamin B12 so it can be absorbed in the terminal ileum.

A client had their gallbladder removed. Which supportive strategy is most consistent with NTA principles?

Answer: Support bile flow and fat digestion with bile salts and bitter foods such as beets

Without a gallbladder, bile drips continuously instead of being released in concentrated amounts, so supporting bile and fat digestion is helpful.

Which antibody provides first-line immune defense at the mucosal lining of the gut?

Answer: Secretory IgA

Secretory IgA coats mucosal surfaces and neutralizes pathogens before they reach the bloodstream.

Which protein regulates the opening of intestinal tight junctions and is associated with increased intestinal permeability?

Answer: Zonulin

Zonulin modulates tight junctions, and elevated levels are linked to 'leaky gut' and gluten exposure.

What is the main role of the migrating motor complex (MMC) between meals?

Answer: Sweeping residual food and bacteria through the small intestine

The MMC is a cleansing wave during fasting, and impaired MMC activity is a recognized contributor to SIBO.

Where are disaccharidase enzymes such as lactase and sucrase primarily found?

Answer: On the brush border of the small intestine

Brush border enzymes on the microvilli finish carbohydrate digestion, and damage to the villi can cause disaccharide intolerance.