Digestionsområde

Digestionsområde is a term used in Scandinavian medical literature to denote the segment of the gastrointestinal tract where the majority of chemical digestion takes place. The concept encompasses the stomach and the proximal small intestine, especially the duodenum and the initial portion of the jejunum. In the stomach, gastric secretions containing hydrochloric acid and pepsin initiate protein breakdown, while mechanical churning mixes the food into a semi‑liquid bolus called chyme. The chyme then passes through the pyloric sphincter into the duodenum, where pancreatic enzymes (amylase, lipase, proteases) and bile from the liver further degrade carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. The absorptive surface expands markedly in this region due to villi and microvilli, facilitating nutrient uptake.

Physiologically, the digestionsområde is regulated by hormonal and neural feedback loops. Secretin and cholecystokinin stimulate pancreatic secretion and gallbladder contraction, whereas vagal stimulation promotes gastric acid release. Dysfunction within this area, such as gastritis, peptic ulcer disease, or duodenal malabsorption, can impair digestion and lead to symptoms like pain, bloating, and nutrient deficiencies. Clinical assessment often focuses on endoscopic examination, imaging, and laboratory tests to evaluate the integrity and function of the digestionsområde.