Tag: Organ systems

It takes over 30 hours for food to pass through the digestive tract, where it is broken down into a usable form. But beyond the well-known gastrointestinal system, several other organ systems are involved in nutrition, working in concert to process food and deliver nutrients throughout the body.

According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, the human body needs nutrients from food and drink to function properly and stay healthy. This vital function of breaking down food and absorbing these essential substances is performed by the digestive system, making it the primary organ system used in nutrition.

Proteins, made from amino acids, are involved in thousands of biochemical reactions throughout the body. This vital macronutrient influences nearly every bodily process, prompting the question: **What organ system does protein affect?** The impact is widespread and essential for overall health, far beyond simply building muscle mass.

According to a 2017-2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), nearly 6% of the US population shows some form of vitamin C deficiency, the root cause of scurvy. Scurvy is not confined to one specific organ, but rather affects multiple organ systems throughout the body due to its critical role in collagen synthesis.

Over 50% of the energy expended by the body is dedicated to keeping its systems functioning properly, even at rest. This fundamental process, known as the basal metabolic rate, demonstrates why all organ systems require nutrient input to perform their essential biological tasks and sustain life.

Did you know that up to 70% of your immune system is housed within your digestive tract, a crucial part of what organ system is responsible for nutrition? This intricate network of organs breaks down food and absorbs the nutrients your body needs to thrive.