Question

Identify and explain two basic life processes associated with the need for oxygenation, fluid & electrolytes, nutrition, elimination, rest & activity, neurosensory, protection, and endocrine function.

Answer 1

1. Digestion

The digestive system to function normally needs oxygen supply as oxygen is the fuel for the body tissues to function normally. Process of digestion from chewing to abdominal muscle contractions for breaking down of complex food molecules requires energy that is supplied by oxygen. Digestion and absorption of nutrients occurs as a result of series of chemical reactions occurring in the gut that require a fluid base.Electrolytes like sodium,chloride as well as zinc are required in the production of Hydrochloric acid in the stomach that is necessary for digestion process.Absorption of other electrolytes as well as nutrients too depends upon the HCL concentration in stomach. Nutrients absorbed as a result of digestion aids in growth and development of an organism and vice versa. Deficiency of certain nutrients can affect digestion and absorption. For example Vitamin D and other fat soluble vitamins may not be absorbed in case of bowel diseases that can interfere with fat absorption leading to deficiency of fat soluble vitamins. Undigested food materials are eliminated through feces. In case of bowel obstruction, delayed gastric emptying can interfere with digestion. Active life style boosts metabolism. Exercise increases the blood flow to GI tract and facilitates movement of food, digestion and absorption. Excess rest or sedentary life style may cause delayed gastric emptying. Nerve supplies to the GI tract creates reflex responses for appetite, need for elimination and other sensations like heart burn, nausea and  vomiting in response to GI irritation. Mucosal lining acts as a  protective coating to the GI organs and prevents invasion of micro organisms.Pancreatic hormones regulates metabolism of carbohydrates and gastric acid secretion that in turn affects process of digestion.

2. Movement/mobility(Physical activity) : Oxygen acts as fuel to muscle movement and aids in mobilization as well as exercising.Fluid deficiency can lead to dehydration and can affect the electrolyte concentration too. Deficiency of electrolytes like sodium can cause muscle cramps, twitching and tremors that in turn affects the mobility. Adequate nutrition promotes growth and repair of body tissues and improves the muscle mass. Inadequate intake of nutrients may lead to deficiencies, protein energy malnutrition which may cause muscle wasting and weakness.Calcium deficiency can lead to bone weakness and fragile bones that may compromise the activity level. Inadequate elimination leads to build of waste products in the body. For example inadequate elimination of uric acid can lead to a condition called gout that affects the joints and mobility too. Adequate rest and activity is necessary for the body. Physical activity increases the uptake of stored fat and glucose reducing the risk of obesity and other debilitating illness. Adequate rest promotes repair of wear and tear and promotes growth. The afferent and efferent nerve paths causes initiation of motor activities like walking,running,swimming etc. A low immune status can predispose an individual to disease and affects the overall wellness. Disease condition alters the physical activity. A strong immune system protects an individual from functional decline. An alteration in endocrine function can also lead to functional decline. For example: Glucose supplies energy for bodily functions. Uptake of glucose is initiated by insulin produced by the pancreatic cells. Parathyroid hormone aids in calcium uptake and metabolism necessary for bone growth. So dysfunction of endocrine or parathyroid gland can lead to serious debilitating consequences.