FooD TalKs BoDy WalKs: Ethical ESSay

I remember growing up and watching all those television shows like the Brady Bunch, Leave it To Beaver, Father Knows Best and thinking when I grow up I plan on having a functioning family just like that. By functioning I mean, everyone sitting down and eating the whole breakfast getup with eggs and sausage, the whole nine yards. After which the kids off to school with sack lunches and neatly combed hair. Then, the husband coming home for a healthy sandwich, fruit, afternoon chit chat and then back to work he goes. Next, the kids home from school going over the day, helping with homework, and making dinner. The kids helping me along the way with preparing the food in between their ins and outs of playing outside. Then, sitting down for dinner and going over what has transpired in the course of a day. But unfortunately, it is not all fairy tales and television drama in my house. I am a married and a mother of three beautiful children. I stay very busy with work, home life, and now I have added college to the mix of an already packed day. My kids are involved in after school activities, field trips, and sports games. I keep my kids involved in such things because it is suggested that it is good to keep your kids busy because idle minds have a tendency to get into trouble. I would love to be able to do the things as seen in black in white on the ole television many years ago but the truth is there is not enough time in the day to accomplish this. Trust me, I would love to be able to get up when the roosters crow to make the best of best breakfasts with all the food pyramids requirements but it is not possible.
So we improvise! The kids start off with cereal or oat meal and milk to drink. For breakfast we try to get things that are easy to prepare and healthy at the same time. We do have junk food cereals but we try to eat those in moderation. The kids would rather eat lunch at school and now with the way the food administration is cracking down on the daily allowances of this and that in the weekly calendar of food at school that is not a bad idea. The lunches at school are not just soy bean burgers on Mondays anymore. Several days through the week I am not home until after 6pm. This is not because I work it is because I am running the kids to their ballet practices, soccer practices and after school activities. I am not sure where I am suppose to squeeze in the cooking of food for dinner. I think it is important to have sit down dinners but we are all in and out of the house at various times that it makes it hard to coordinate it. Everyone is hungry and no one wants to wait until 7 pm to eat. That is way too late but we all want to eat healthy.
So one way I have tried to invest more time into making sure that we all eat healthier is by investing in a crock pot and quickie cookbooks. Even some of those meals can be made in 30 minutes or less. That way on the nights that I am running here and there late at night the food is ready for my husband who is usually home first. Crock pots are great for stews, chili, roasts with the veggies, and many other pasta meals if you add the noodles last. I like the idea of having “family dinners” is what we call them. That is where dinner is prepared and we sit at the dining table a consume and converse with each other but often times then not it does not always work out that way.
I think that many people live a fast paced life not paying attention to food intake, calories, or the recommended daily allowances that are suggested. Not because they chose to be unhealthy but because it is kind of complicated to figure out and work out. I don’t think that people sit around thinking what can I eat to make me fatter, more unhealthy, more likely to have cardio problems, or type II diabetes. I think that many restaurants are making it easier to count calories and break things down for you on the menu. I think that would be a big help in trying to watch what we are eating and trying not to take in too many of the wrong types of foods. Subway is a perfect place to go if you are wanting to know what is in each sandwich or at least each of the most popular ones. Applebee’s also has a weight watchers menu. Often times you can find vegetarian cuisine as well as a light menu in many places. I think that this is one way that we could combat the aftermath(unhealthy eating) that is a result of having a busy life. I think that restaurants need to start putting more of an effort into making sure that what they are serving us is healthy and balanced. Because I don’t see us cutting back on going out to dinner or breakfast anytime soon.
I don’t think that people or families necessarily want to eat unhealthy but I think that it is so much easier to just pick up something quick from the fast food place rather rush home and throw something together. I liked the idea of preparing food slow. I like to make my own orange juice. I just actually received from my Grandmother her old crystal juicer. It gives you time to enjoy what you have prepared. It is always a good feeling to know that you have made this or that “from scratch.” It always get the, "oooo’s and awww’s" from the loved ones when you express that feat. I think that if we all could slow it down a bit it would be better for us all the way around. Everyone step away from the typical fast paced crazy life and take more time to be selfish when it comes to what we are putting into our bodies it would be beneficial. After all lets take a quote from the old Schoolhouse Rock cartoons, “You are what you eat!”

*SELF EVALUATION*

1. What were the three aspects of the assignments I've submitted that I am most proud of?
I am proud of my graphs, tables, abilities to actually be able to finally “get” the computer part of it. I loved the graph website a lot. That is going to help in another class that I am taking to be able to make graphs for a presentation that I am having to do.

2. What two aspects of my submitted assignments do I believe could have used some improvement?
I think I did a very good job. I worked hard and put in a lot of effort. I think I could have done a better job at analyzing my data better with comparing my actual results to my hypothetical results. Also, posting my pictures with each section. I tried to figure that out while I was doing it… with no such luck.

3. What do I believe my overall grade should be for this unit?
I think I should get an A in the unit. I think I put in the time and everything that is necessary. I tried to read thoroughly what was needed to be done in each section and tried to complete all that was required.

4. How could I perform better in the next unit?
I know I said before better time management and organization. Well I think I mastered the whole organization thingy. But I think better time management would be a plus.

At what moment during this unit did you feel most engaged with the course?
I felt the most engaged when I was doing the labs. I liked comparing the peoples’ blood pressure readings and trying to compare and contrast why they were the same or different and what influenced the readings. I loved doing the hands on labs where I was obtaining my bp, respiration rates, and pulse readings.

At what moment unit did you feel most distanced from the course?
I found this whole unit interesting. But I think the cells red and white etc... Was probably where I was the most distanced.

What action that anyone (teacher or student) took during this unit that find most affirming and helpful?
The teacher was always there to answer any of the questions I had and I found that to be very helpful and reassuring.

What action that anyone (teacher or student) took during this unit did you find most puzzling or confusing?
There was not one thing that was puzzling that the teacher or student did but the calorie calculator was a bit tricky but I think that is super helpful if you are trying to regulate your intake and trying to figure out if what you are eating is what is actually good for you. Because it is not only about counting calories but are the calories you are consuming beneficial.

What about this unit surprised you the most? (This could be something about your own reactions to the course, something that someone did, or anything else that occurs to you.)
I think it was surprising that I got more excited and had higher bp during eating then I did doing the head stand. AND that was hard by the way… to do it for 10 MINUTES… yikes… the blood was rushing big time!

Rest...Guess...Gooo! Exercise Lab

Regular exercise is good for your body to help in maintaining homeostasis. The body is made up of several organ systems. Without any one of these systems there would be a failure in our ability to function. The circulatory systems consist of a series of vessels that transport blood to and from the heart and then throughout the whole body. By increasing exercise blood flow is increased and oxygen levels are elevated. Oxygen is needed to supply the cells with growth and the necessary nutrients. While resting, the respiratory levels, blood pressure and pulse are lower and as activity is increased so are the respiratory levels, blood pressure and pulse. Exercise can halp you feel better, look better and feel a sense of sccomplishment. It can also lower the chances of developing different diseases such as type II diabetes and high blood pressure. As you will see in the graphs and information with increased strain in exercising there are elevated levels of blood pressure as well as respiration. Increased exercise increases blood flow to various parts of the body. Exercise and activity is not only good for the body but also the mind as well!

In the graph below I have hypothesized what I thought would happen to my blood pressure, pulse, and respiration levels during each of the activities. For my three activities I chose to do for 10 minutes were; eating lunch (yum), standing on head, and hiking with the family. I took my blood pressure, pulse and counted my respiration levels as well. Respiration is counted by using a second hand on a watch and counting the breaths that are happening in 30 seconds and then multiplying by two. One breath is a breathing in and exhaling out. The pulse is taken by counting how many beats are happening within the 30 seconds and then multiply that by two. Placing two fingers on the side of your neck on either side of the trachea and locating a beat. Thud thud.

For each of the activities I projected what I thought would happen for each.

I thought that activity 1 (eating lunch) would not result in much of an increase of any of the rates.

I thought that for activity 2 (standing on head) would result in an increase in all the rates but not as much as say hiking or really anything that would be considered an exertion of any kind.

I thought that for activity 3 (hiking) there would be considerably higher then my resting rate or any of the other activities. So I projected it to high.

I did each of the activities and took my readings 5 times so that I could compare the results to that of my baseline or resting rates.

This is the blood pressure machine that I used. Luckily I did not have to run to Walgreens to get the reading every time. Phew.

This one way to take the pulse. Using two fingers. Palms up. Then, looking at a stop watch or something with a second hand count the beats that occur in 30 seconds. This is another way to take the pulse. Two fingers placed on your neck an inch or so below the chin just to the left or right of the trachea.

Here is the recorded data on a table above. It includes the resting rate, activity 1 (eating at lunch), activity 2 (head stand), and activity 3 (hiking). In the chart as you move your eyes down the side you can see the pulse, respiration, and blood pressure (systolic & diastolic) for each activity. the mean of each is on the far right hand column. Below are the means for each in bar graphs. The rate of each category is on the left hand side of the graph. Each activity including resting rate is at the bottom of the graph and the numbers of each bar is located at the top.

The graph above shows the respiration rate of each activity including resting rate.

The graph above is diastolic rate of the blood pressure reading for the activities including resting.
The graph above is the systolic rate of the blood pressure reading for each of the activities including resting rate.
This is a graph of the pulse reading for each of the following activities including resting rate.

Here is a picture of my son and I eating lunch. My daughter just thought she was the bomb for being able to take the picture. I did not think that my readings (pulse, respiration, bp) would be elevated much by doing this activity. But they were slightly elevated... eating these yummy treat must of made me happy! That banana was mm mm good.
The picture above is of me doing a head stand... and let me tell you... this was no easy task. I thought my head was gonna snap off or fill completely with blood. man o man...my readings were elevated but not by a bunch. My kids thought this was hilarious... seeing me do a head stand. You know I don't think I have done that since I was about 12 years old.

The picture above is of me and the family taking a break from hiking at Sycamore Canyon. As you can see from the recorded reading on the chart they are clearly elevated. That was a fun day. We even saw an eagle and a family of mule dear! Exciting stuff ya'll!



This is the eagle soaring in the sky the wing span was incredible... pretty neat!

This is the family of mule deer that we saw on our hike out! Way awesome! It doesn't take much to make my day!

After taking a look at my hypothesized data and comparing it to my gathered data. For the most part it was not right. Let's take each category one at a time.

Act. 1 pulse: hypothesis (78) actual (83)

Act. 1 respiration: hypothesis (14) actual (18)

Act. 1 bp systolic: hypothesis (138) actual (144)

Act. 1 bp diastolic: hypothesis (88) actual (94)

Act. 2 pulse: hypothesis (82) actual (80)

Act. 2 respiration: hypothesis (22) actual (23) Close!

Act. 2 bp systolic: hypothesis (145) actual (143)

Act. 2 bp diastolic: hypothesis (98) actual (90)

Act. 3 pulse: hypothesis (110) actual (109) Close!

Act. 3 respiration: hypothesis (34) actual (39)

Act. 3 bp systolic: hypothesis (168) actual (164)

Act. 3 bp diastolic: hypothesis (106) actual (114)

What I thought was interesting about the recorded data was that I got more excited (by excited I mean elevation in my rates) about eating my lunch then standing on my head. I thought for sure that the head standing event would raise my pulse, respiration, and bp levels more then eating my lunch. But it did not. The only level that was raised higher was my respiration levels by doing the head stand. Maybe it was the conversation at lunch with my kids that made my levels higher. It was a happy and funny lunch talk. I thought that laughter was good for you? Maybe the results would have been different with the head standing if I had moved a bit faster with the different readings. I did not get right on the mark on any of the hypothesized rates but I came close a few times. Overall, I was right when thinking that hiking would have significantly higher rates then any of the other activities. I think it would have been interesting to do the same activities with people who might have respiratory problems like asthma. I am sure there would be a difference in respiration levels as well as blood pressure readings. Also I think it would have been interesting to be able to compare my results with those of friends or family members doing the same types of exercises. Or maybe different age groups. Or adolescent versus adults.

In conclusion, various activities from eating lunch to hiking with the family all require energy. With the increase in activity there is an increase in oxygen production, blood flow and cellular nutrition and respiration to make this possible. With exercise being increased it caused the blood flow to increase which is why the blood pressure was higher in the diastolic and systolic levels. Blood flow moving in and out of the heart with each beat. Moving oxygenated blood through to various tissues in the body. With increased activity there are "wastes" carbon dioxide that are exhaled. Hints the intake of oxygen and the exhale of carbon dioxide rapidly increasing as the activity levels increased as was noted on the tables and graphs above. The ole saying, "get a bit of fresh air," never hurts, if anything it helps. In order for the body to function properly it is vital to consume a balanced diet, get regular exercise, and appropriate rest as well. After all we can live weeks without food, days without water but we can only last a few minutes without oxygen. Oxygen is vital for survival. I think in life there has to be a clear balance. Everything in moderation!

fOOd 4 ThOught

This is a calorie counter tool from a great website called: balancemindbodysoul.com and it is a nutritional way to keep track of what each item taken in in a calorie form and then totalled to give you the totals broken down in different percentages ie... fiber, sugars, fats, etc.

So if you look at the left hand side of the screen you will see the choices of different items that you can pick from. You can also type in words for specific items and it will search and give you the matches in the upper middle white box. Then you scroll down and choose the correct type that you are looking for and click "add to list". Then it puts the item to the bottom white box and adds all the calories and nutritional information together in the label to the bottom right of what you ate. As you add a food item it adds up the information on each item. It is pretty nifty.

This is a log of what I ate in one day. Calorie wise I think I did okay but when you look at sodium levels, fat levels, and other percentage levels it is clear that a bit of change in my diet would not hurt. One thing not included in the mix of food counting was the skittles that I ate as a snack mid day, the apple that I ate and of course water! This was really interesting and fun to do!

*Questions*

How healthy of a diet do you think this is? Why?

I thought I was eating pretty healthy. I am eating fruits, veggies and drinking my 6 to 8 glasses of water a day (okay maybe not quite 6 glasses on some days) but after seeing the readings of how many fats and sugars I was taking in... I am thinking that it could use a bit of altering and the SODIUM was crazy high!

What would you change about this day's eating, if any?

If I were to change anything it would probably be not having so much bread. But I really like what I ate it was delicious. So maybe I would just add a bit more exercise to the mix to balance it all out after all this is not what I eat everyday. I have a varied diet and I think that anything in moderation is good.

Do you find this type of nutritional tracking helpful? Why or why not?

I think that this type of nutritional tracking is great. I think that writing down everything that was consumed in one day was actually more helpful then using the calculator because it made me conscientious of what I was eating. I liked the way the food calculator added everything up and broke everything down into the subcategories such fats, cholesterol, sugars etc. and I think this could be very helpful to those that are trying to watch what they eat for dieting or health reasons.

ComPenDiuM ReviEW for NuTriTion & DiGesTioN

Internal Body Maintenance

Table Of Contents For
Nutrition & Digestion

I. Nutrition (5)

A. Macronutrients
1. Water
3. Carbohydrates
4. Lipids
5. Amino Acids & Protein

B. Micronutrients
1. Vitamins & Minerals
2. Food Functions

II. The Digestive System

A. Passage of Food
1. Mouth, Tongue & Teeth
2. Epiglottis, Esophagus, & Stomach
3. Chyme, Small Intestines, Pancreas, Liver
4. Intestinal Epithelium & Large Intestines

III. Respiratory System

A. Passageway of air
1. Parts and functions

B. Gas exchange
1. Oxygen & Carbon Dioxide

C. Breathing & Control of Respiration
1. Inspiration & Expiration

D. Diseases of Respiratory System
1. Viral & bacterial Infections
2. Asthma & Emphysema

IV. Glucose & Diffusion

A. Kreb’s Cycle
B. Diabetes Type I & II & Gestational

*Nutrition*
When I think of nutrition one cartoon from childhood pops into mind and that is the one from, “Schoolhouse Rock” with that song, “You are what you eat.” It is hard to believe but what is consumed now with effect our bodies in the future. It is important to eat a balanced diet with a fair dispersement of the proper nutrients, vitamins and minerals to function accordingly. The US Department of Agriculture designed a food pyramid to help people eat healthier. In this food pyramid there are six main food groups with the amounts that people should consume have the proper nutrition. The nutrients that are necessary to survive and maintain healthiness can be split up into two categories; macronutrients and micronutrients.
*Macronutrients*
-Macronutrients consist of five basic things; water, amino acids and proteins, lipids, and carbohydrates. These can be found in various foods and drinks, milk and milk products, meats, nuts, oils, seeds, breads pastas, cereals, and sweets. Macronutrients are needed in large quantities and water is the most important. ---Without water the average person would not be able to survive for more then 3 days. The body has to maintain sufficient water intake because it is involved in many chemical reactions in the body. Water helps to maintain proper body temperature too.
-Carbohydrates are a major source of energy for the body. They primarily consist of carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen. There are three types of groups that carbohydrates fall into; monosaccharides, dissacharides, and polysaccharides. Monosaccharides are usually categorized as simple sugars like glucose. Disaccharides are two monosaccharides stuck together such as glucose and fructose. Glucose molecules are stored in the liver and muscle as glycogen. Starches fall into this category as well. Starches are found in plants usually in leaves and roots. An example of a starch is a potato. The body breaks down starches into sugars and then the body uses it for energy. Another important carbohydrate that can’t be digested is cellulose. Cellulose is aids in the passage of fecal matter through the intestinal tract and reduces the incidence of colon cancer.
-Lipids are a great source of energy and are also known for supplying the body with a layers of heat-conserving insulation. They are insoluble in water and are usually greasy, waxy, or oily. There are two important lipids that should come to mind. Triglycerides are known as fats and oils. These are found in animal fats. One of the best known steroids is cholesterol. It comes for the liver and lesser amounts come from diets.
-Proteins in food are broken down to amino acids in the small intestines, which are then used to make enzymes and hormones in the cells of the body and are absorbed in the bloodstream. In order to supply the body with all the amino acids people should consume complete proteins that can be found in milk or eggs.
*Micronutrients*
-Micronutrients consist of two basic things; vitamins and minerals. These two things can be found in veggies, fruits, meats, nuts, and seeds.
-Vitamins are only required in small quantities for normal metabolism. An overabundance and insufficiency of vitamins or minerals can have serious effects on the human health. When talking about vitamins they can be broken down into two categories; water-soluble and fat-insoluble. The water soluble ones are vitamin C and B complex. The fat-soluble vitamins are A, D, E, and K.
-Minerals can be broken down into two categories; trace minerals (these are minerals that are needed in small amounts) and major minerals (these are minerals that are needed in large amounts).
-There are many foods that are consumed by people that are considered to be unhealthy but there are a few foods that are considered to be beneficial and they are called functional foods. These foods have been used to reduce cholesterol and prevent some diseases. Some substances that are filled with benefits to the body are antioxidants. Eating foods rich in antioxidants have been known to reduce heart and artery disease. One example of an antioxidant is chocolate. My favorite! Yum! Another example of a food that is rich in antioxidants are fruits and vegetables. Antioxidants have also been used to help in cancer.
*Digestive System*
The digestive system is where food is broken down, filtered through, and dispersed throughout the body for nutrients and energy.
-Digestion begins when food is placed in the mouth. Salivary glands produce saliva which is used to help liquefy it. -Salation is stimulated by smells, tasting, smell, and sometimes even by thoughts of the favorites foods. This is an example of a nervous reflex in the body. Along with the chopping of the teeth food is pulverized and then swallowed. The tongue plays a major role in making this happen. Then the tongue pushes food to the back of the oral cavity into the pharynx.
-Food is then thrust into the esophagus (the food tube to the stomach) and the trachea or windpipe is right in front of it. So to prevent the food from heading down the wrong pipe the epiglottis is like the trapdoor closing the opening to the trachea. Swallowing is an involuntary act and then from there food moving through the body is automatic. Involuntary muscle contractions (called peristalsis) in the esophagus moves food through. The stomach produces pepsin which breaks proteins into peptides and hydrochloric acid which denatures protein allowing it to be acted on by enzymes. The stomach is regulated by neutral and hormonal mechanisms. The food is stored in the stomach and the opening to the stomach is covered by the sphincter. Gastric juices are produced in the stomach which helps to churn the food and turn it into a watery paste called chyme.
-Chyme leaves the stomach and then enters into the small intestines by peristaltic muscle contractions. The small intestines serves as a site to food digestion and absorption. The small intestines coil in the abdominal region that is about 6 meters long in adults. When thinking about the small intestines remember that the intestines are broken into three parts; the duodenum, jejunum, and the ileum. Enzymes are used to help break down large molecules into smaller molecules. In the walls of the small intestines are lacteals and they are used to absorb and move fats through the body. The pancreas is located beneath the stomach and is nestled in a loop formed by the first portion of the small intestines. This organ is has endocrine and exocrine functions. When functioning as an endocrine gland it produces enzymes and sodium bicarbonate that is used in digestion. Endocrine functioning takes place by producing hormones like insulin and glucagon that help keep homeostasis regulated. The pancreas produces juices and releases about 1 to 1.5 quarts into the small intestines EACH day! These secretions are often stimulated by hormones that are released in the small intestines. The liver carries out many functions in digestion. It is one of the largest and most versatile organ in the body. It has about 500 different jobs. It is protected by the rib cage and is located in the right side of your body just above the stomach. The liver helps to synthesize blood proteins that are used in blood clotting. It also filters out the foreign chemicals introduced into the body such as alcohol and nicotine. As well as producing an important substance called bile that is a fluid that is used in breaking down fats in the body. The gallbladder and the liver work hand in hand. After bile is produced in the liver it is then moved into the gallbladder where it is stored until it is needed in the small intestines.
-Intestinal Epithelium is what the lining of the intestines is called and it is what is needed to help the body absorb the necessary ingredients for the body to function properly. When talking about absorption and digestion there are three common mechanisms; diffusion, osmosis, and active transport.
-The large intestines are primarily used for the transport of wastes (feces, the leftovers, the unabsorbed, unused, ingredients that the body doesn’t need) and the reabsorption of water. The large intestines are broken up into three main components; the cecum (the connector between the small and large intestines), appendix (wormlike structure that attaches to the cecum) , and colon (mainly what the large intestine is made up of). The colon then empties into the rectum.
*Respiratory System*
The main function of the respiratory system is to supply oxygen to the body and get rid of carbon dioxide. In order for successful breathing and repiration to take place there are a few key components in order to make this possible. It is not as simple as breathe in through the nose and blow out through the mouth. It is split into two primary activities that are happening which are; air conducting (transportation of air to the lungs) and gas-exchange (oxygen absorption and carbon dioxide release).
*Passageway of air*
-Mouth or nose>>pharynx>>larynx>>trachea>>bronchi>>lungs>>
-The first point of entry would either be through the nasal cavity or the oral cavity. The nasal and oral cavities take in air, then filters it, warms it, and moves it through to the pharynx. The oral cavity also helps to produce noise.
-Then off to the pharynx this is the funnel shaped structure that opens to the nose and mouth and opens below the larynx.
-The larynx is the voice box that holds the vocal cords, it also transports air to the trachea and it warms and fliters the air a little bit more.
-The epiglottis is vital here because as we are breathing this flap opens to allow air to pass through or when we are swallowing it covers the trachea so food does not get lodged. It is doorman of the body for food or oxygen.
-The larynx opens to the trachea or otherwise known as the windpipe.
-The trachea then divides into two large branches that are called the bronchi that go to the lungs. Air is continuing to be warmed throughout the whole process.
-The bronchioles control the air flow in the lungs and transport air to alveoli.
-The alveoli are small air sacs in the lungs. This is where oxygen exchange takes place in the blood stream. This gas exchange is aided by an important cell called the alveolar macrophage otherwise known as the dust cell. It is the clean up crew of the gas exchange process.
*Gas Exchange*
The respiratory system is a complex system of gas exchange. Air is brought into the body through the mouth. Oxygen and carbon dioxide are diffused across the alveolar walls and into the bloodstream.
-Oxygen diffuses into the blood plasma, and then into the red blood cells, where it binds to hemoglobin.
-Carbon dioxide is a leftover product of the gas exchange. Most of this gas gets wrapped up with the red blood cells and is then changed into carbonic acid. The carbonic acid then goes into the blood plasma.
*Breathing & the Control of Respiration*
Breathing is an involuntary action meaning we do not have to tell ourselves to breath in order to keep breathing and that is all controlled by the brain stem. That might be a problem during sleep.
-Nerve cells send impulses to the diaphragm and it contracts. This action causes the thoracic area to expand and draw in air through the mouth or nose. This action is called inhalation or inspiration.
-When the lungs fill completely then the muscles relaxed causing the air to be expelled, or otherwise known as expiration. Supplemental help can come fromt eh abdominal and chest muscles in order to completely exhale the air.
*Diseases of the Respiratory System*
Diseases of the respiratory system are common. Here are some examples of some diseases that occur in the respiratory system.
-Bacteria and viruses can infect many parts of the respiratory system. One that is common is bronchitis. This is an infection in the bronchi. Another is sinusitis which is an infection in the sinuses. When people lose there voice it is called laryngitis. This is caused by the inflammation of the lining of the larynx and vocal cords.
-Asthma it is an allergic response that inhibits the ability of breathing efficiently. Often times asthma is common among school aged children but as they grow into adulthood it often times disappears or the effects lessen. One of the most common treatments for asthma is an inhaler.
-Emphysema is another respiratory disease and it is caused by the breakdown of the alveoli which is caused by chemical irritants such as smoking and air pollution. There is no known cure for this disease.
-Lung cancer is another horrible disease in the respiratory system which is caused by smoking.
*Glucose Diffusion*
Glucose is the main ingredient that gets combined with oxygen in cellular respiration.
The first phase in cellular respiration in cells is called glycolysis.
-The main way that cells get ATP is through the Krebb’s cycle.
-Glucose diffuses through a protein pore in the cell membrane.
-Insulin is secreted into the blood by the pancreas and this usually happens after ingesting food. When the insulin is released this in turn causes the cells take in glucose and store it or use it in cellular metabolism. Glucose can be stored in the liver or muscles in the body and it is called glycogen.
When talking about abnormal functioning of either of these two processes occurs then that is when a person develops diabetes. There are two types of diabetes that are common among people.
-Diabetes type I is when a person’s pancreas is not producing insulin. This accounts for 5% to 10% of cases concerning diabetes.
-Diabetes type II is usually common among people who are overweight. This is when the cells don’t use insulin and in turn can’t use glucose. This accounts for 90% to 95% of cases of diabetes. -Gestational Diabetes is only a type of diabetes that pregnant women can get. This can develop in 2% to 5% of women who become pregnant.

CoMpeNdiUm PicTuRes: NutRitiOn, DigEstiOn, & ResPirAtioN

The three pictures above are informational and tell about the different vitamins and minerals, their functions, and what foods contain a high content of them. Also, what conditions might arise if you consume too little or not enough of them. (power point)

The picture above is of carbohydrate, protein, and fat digestion and how it moves into the bloodstream.

The picture above is of a starch cell. Pretty nifty huh? www.peoriaendocrine.com
The picture above shows the digestive system in the human body. Pointing out all of the important parts. www.nutrition.natural-remedies-clinic.co.uk

The picture above is of the travels of the respiratory system. sticksoffire.com

The picture above is the process of glucose metabolism.


This is a picture of insulin coming in and stimulating the cells to take up glucose. (power point)

The picture above is the Krebs Cycle. Showing th etravel from glucose to energy to chemical energy to electron transport to ATP. www.qensan.com

Compendium Pictures: Oxygen, Microbes, & Immunity: The Circulatory System

The picture above gives you an idea of how busy the human body is and that is just the circulatory system. To the left of the picture it is showing the heart and teh different cavities and major arteries and veins.
www.poster.de

The picture above showing arteries & veins moving into the heart and leaving the heart going into the lungs and leaving.
http://www.texasheart.org/searchresults.cfm

The picture above is of blood vessels in the body. Each important part labeled.
thinkdifferent.typepad.com

The picture above is of the lymphatic system and its travels in green. Notice the lymph nodes under the armpits?
http://rds.yahoo.com/_ylt=A0S020rSSMtHARABAXijzbkF/SIG=12eih7trp/EXP=1204591186/**http%3A//catalog.nucleusinc.com/enlargeexhibit.php%3FID=2615

Compendium Pictures:Oxygen, Microbes, & Immunity: Blood II

The picture above is of plasma cells. I think they look quite interesting.
www.mcl.tulane.edu

The picture above is of red blood cells. Reminds me of a cough drop.
http://rds.yahoo.com/_ylt=A0S0201SSstHaDoBQAijzbkF/SIG=11u1rdm81/EXP=1204591570/**http%3A//www.mikecurtis.org.uk/ks2_Heart.htm

This is a picture above is of a white blood cell. It reminds me of a cottonball.
www.feedo.net

In the picture above it shows blood clotting before and after.
biomed.brown.edu

In the graph above shows the T cells marked in blue. The red line on the graph makes HIV on the rise. To the right. The end of the red line means death and the blue line is the journey of the T cell.

In the picture above it is what an electron micoscan of an HIV buddinf from a cultured lymphocyte.http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AIDS

Compendium: OxYgen, MicRobes, & ImmUnity

Internal Body Maintenance
Table of Contents For
Oxygen, Microbes, & Immunity
I. Circulatory System (6) www.poster.de
A. The Heart
1. Pulmonary & Systematic Circuits
2. Heart Valves & Sounds
3. Heart Pacemaker, Heart Rate, & Electrical Activity
B. Blood Vessels
1. Arteries & Arterioles
2. Capillaries
3. Veins & Venules
C. Lymphatic System
1. Lymph Capillaries
D. Cardiovascular Diseases: Causes & Cures
II. The Blood
A. Blood Plasma
1. Blood Transport & Regulation
B. Red Blood Cells
1. Sickle Cell C. White Blood Cells
1. Function
2. Neutrophils, Monocytes, & Lymphocytes
3. Leukemia & Infectious Mononucleosis
D. Blood Clotting
1. Platelets
2. Blood Types
3. Blood Transfusion
E. Blood Viruses
1. AIDS

The body is made up of several organ systems. Without any one of these systems there would be a failure in our ability to function.
The circulatory systems consist of a series of vessels that transport blood to and from the heart and then throughout the whole body.
It is made up of to primary circuits; the pulmonary circuit and the systematic circuit.
The systematic circuit transports blood through the body not including the lungs.
The pulmonary circuit transports the blood to and from the lungs.

*The Heart*
One of the major organs in the circulatory system is the heart. It is a muscular organ that pumps blood all throughout the body. The heart is about the size of your very own fist.
-The inside of the heart is made up of three layers, the pericardium, myocardium, and the endocardium.
-The pericardium is a closed sac that forms around the heart and any of the larger vessels that come in and go our of the heart. This sac is filled with a watery fluid that helps in reducing the amount of fiction produced by the heart when it beats.
-The middle layer of the heart is called the myocardium and it is made up of muscle cells.
-The inner most layer of the heart is the endocardium and this is the part that lines the heart chambers.
So as blood is pumped into the heart it first enters into the inferior and superior vena cavae. These veins carry blood that has lost most of its oxygen to the cells tissues and organs straight into the atrium which is the upper chamber of the heart then into the lower chamber called the ventricle. When the right ventricle gets full the walls will contract and this action forces blood into the pulmonary arteries that head out to the lungs. Then the blood gets its fill of oxygen and heads back to the heart through the pulmonary veins and dumps it in to left ventricle which is the upper chamber of the left side of the heart. Once the blood fills up the left ventricle it then is forced into the aorta which is the largest artery in the body. It takes the oxygen rich blood from the heart to the cells and the tissues. The right and left ventricles fill at the same time both pumping the blood to the lungs and the rest of the body. The heart valves help control the flow of blood in the heart. The valves between the atria and ventricles are called artrioventricular valves. This valve consists of three flaps that are anchored to the inner walls of the ventricles by the chordac tendineae or slender cords. The right atrioventricular valve that is between the right ventricle and atrium is called the tricuspid valve because it has three flaps. The left atrioventricular valve is known as the bicuspid valve because it has two flaps. The heart valves are one way valves. Heart sounds are a direct result of the heart valves closing. The first sound is the atrioventricular valves. When the semi lunar valves shut the second heart sound is made. The right and left valves never close at the same time.
-The human body has a internal pacemaker that controls the heart rate. When thinking about controlling heart rate it is often external factors that regulate the pacemaker. There are also several hormones that control the heart. Whenever a person lifts a car or does something they might never be ale to do it is often said that it was “the adrenaline pumping.” Well this is produced in the adrenal glands that are right by the kidneys. Epinephrine is the formal name for the hormone produced when we experience stresses or exercise and when this production takes place the blood speeds up as well. When thinking about measuring the electrical activity in the heart it is often done by a ECG or EKG.
*Blood Vessels*
Blood vessels are the interconnected transportation of our body to either the lungs or the rest of the body. It is our underground subway system so to speak.
Arteries and arterioles takes oxygenated blood from the heart and then it branches out where needed throughout the body to different tissues and organs..
Arteries>>>Arterioles>>>Capillaries>>>Venules>>>Veins
-Capillaries allow the exchange of nutrients and wastes.
-Venuoles drain out the capillaries.
-Veins take the blood back to the heart.
-Veins and arteries are partners and typically run through the body side by side transporting the blood throughout the body.
-Blood pressure is the force the blood applies to the inside of the blood vessels. This may rise or lower according to the activity or stress that the person is under. Blood pressure is measured by a blood pressure cuff and it is placed on the upper part of the arm. When air is released out of the cuff that is when the blood pressure reading is available.
-There are two types of pressures that need to be considered when taking blood pressure.
-The systolic pressure (the higher number on top) is where the ventricles contract at the peak moment.
-The diastolic pressure (lower number or bottom) is when the heart relaxes to let the ventricles fill again.
*Lymphatic System*
The lymphatic system is a secondary system of vessels and glands that return excess fluid to the circulatory system and functionally relates to the immune system as well. It aids in draining interstitial fluid fromt eh body tissues and then moves it into the blood.
-In this system there are several key organs; lymph nodes, spleen, thymus, and the tonsils. Most of these organs play a key role in helping the immune system.
-Lymph nodes are helpful in filtering out the bacteria, viruses, and other leftover debris from the lymph. In a normal body under perfect circumstances lymph is balanced out not producing more then it is eliminating. This balance of these fluids keeps the bodies organs from selling and causing complications.
*Cardiovascular Diseases: Causes & Cures*
When thinking about the heart keep in mind that there are many complications and life threatening diseases that can occur in the human body.
-Myocardial infarction or most commonly known as one of the two reasons that lead to a heart attack. This is where there is a blockage(s) or clot(s) in the arteries leading to the heart that deprives it of oxygen and nutrients that potentially leads to the damaging or killing of muscle cells. The blockage can occur from plaque otherwise known as atherosclerosis. Sometimes even before a heart attack is coming on a person may experience several weeks of angina. This is when pain is felt in the center of the chest and can span through a person’s back, throat and arms. This pain is caused by a reduction in oxygen in the myocardium.
-Fibrillation is another type of heart attack that can occur and this is when the heart muscles electrical controls are out of wack. It starts beating independently without direction. Without this coordination of heart beats and blood flow it makes the organ fail and this is known as cardiac arrest.
-Prevention is the best cure for heart attacks. In the blood pressure lab it was evident that is was important to have a proper diet, exercise regularly, and watch the alcohol consumption. One thing that was not controllable was the history of hypertension (high blood pressure). Hypertension occurs when the increase of blood pressure happens over a period of time without notice or treatment until it is too late. In addition to eating right, managing stress and even taking a regimented daily aspirin for extended periods of time can also help to prevent a heart attacks.
*The Blood*
Blood is made up of many key components; plasma and other formed elements, blood cells and platelets.
Some nifty blood facts:
1)It accounts for 80% of your total body weight
2)Plasma makes up 55% of the blood volume
3)Other formed elements 45%
4)Blood cells or hermocrits are effected by altitude & 5% higher for people living a mile above sea level.
5)In 20 droplets of blood it contains 5 BILLION red blood cells.
6)White blood cells make up 1% of the blood’s volume
*Blood Plasma*
-Plasma is light yellow in coloration and its used as a taxi cab for many important substances.
Plasma is packed with a punch! It is made up of gases (Nitrogen, Oxygen, & Carbon Dioxide), ions (Sodium, Chloride, & Calcium), nutrients (Glucose & Amino Acids), hormones, proteins, various wastes, and lipid molecules.
*Red Blood Cells*
Red blood cells are flexible cells that transports oxygenated blood by hemoglobin and carbon dioxide. Red blood cells are produced by stem cells in the bone marrow. These cells do not have a nuclei or organelles. The life span of RBCs is 120 days.
-Sickle cell anemia is a hereditary blood disease. It is more common among African Americans. Through studies conducted it has been found that those who have this disease usually don’t circum to malaria which is a common disease that kills 1.2 million people each year. The sickle cell anemia is a DNA mutation. The body normally carries two hemoglobin genes which in turn is the protein that carries oxygen. When the mutation occurs it means that inadequate oxygen is being produced in the cells. This deficiency causes the cells to warp like a sickle. The shape makes it difficult for the cells to move freely through the vessels. When getting lodged in the vessels this can cause a person immense pain and sick with a high fever.
*White Blood Cells* (leukocytes)
These guys are the main fighters of invaders in the human body. If foreign microorganisms enter the body WBCs are the first ones to arrive on the “scene.” They are produced in the bone marrow and circulate in the blood stream. But they most of their work outside of the bloodstream in the body tissues.
-The most abundant white blood cells are the Neurophiles. These cells are the first to arrive at the scene and begin engulfing the micoorganisms. The cells are drawn by chemicals that are emitted by the infected tissues.
-The second grouping of cells that go running are the monocytes otherwise known as the cleaning crew. These cells arrive at the infected area and begin to engulf the microorganisms, dead cells, cellular debris, and dead neutrophiles.
-The second most abundant white blood cells are the lymphocytes. These cells are the ones that basically blow the whistle and give the “go” to start the cells dispersement. There are two types of lymphocytes. The first one is the T cell or t lymphocyte. The T cells attack foreign cells like fungi, parasites, and tumor cells.
This is the T cell that the AIDS virus attacks. See more AIDS information below. The second type is the B cell or B lymphocyte. When these cells are activated they turn into another kind of cell known as a plasma cell. These cells synthesize and release antibodies, proteins that circulate in the blood and bind to foreign substances.
-Leukemia is a cancer that occurs in the white blood cells. Like with all cancers it is an increasingly outrageous multiplication and dividing of cells but this one is done with the WBCs in the bone marrow. This cancer occurs mainly in children. The only way to treat this cancer is to irradiate the bone marrow and inject it with a drug called incrusting. This drug assists in stopping the multiplying of cells. This drug now saves 3 out of every 4 children inflicted with this cancer. This drug was found in the rainforest in a small flower called the rosy periwinkle. I wonder how many other cures are in the rainforest waiting to be found?
*Blood Clotting*
Whenever there is an abrasion or cut blood clotting occurs.
-Platelets are a vital component in blood clotting. They are produced in the bone marrow by the fragmenting of a huge cell known as megakaryocytic. Platelets lack organelles and nuclei. Blood clotting is a reaction that is started with the release of a chemical in the walls of the blood vessels called thromboplastin. See breakdown of how blood clotting takes place as given in book.
1)Injury
2)Thromboplastin stimulates conversion of prothrombin, found in plasma, into thrombin
3)Thrombin then stimulates the conversion of the plasma protein fibrinogen into fibrin
4)The fibrin network captures RBCs & platelets
5)Platelets in the blood clot release platelet thromboplastin
6)which converts additional plasma prothrombin into thrombin
7)thrombin stimulates production of additional fibrin
-Blood types are figured out by the types of glycoprotein found in the red blood cell membranes.
These types are A, B, AB, & O. Serious complications can occur when blood types are not clearly matched.
-When blood transfusions are being done it is important to keep in mind not only the blood type but also the Rh factor. People can be Rh positive or Ph negative. Positive meaning the person carries the Rh antigen and negative meaning the person doesn’t.
*Blood Viruses*
AIDS stands for Aquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome or Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome. It is believed to have started in Africa. AIDS starts with contracting HIV. This is where the T cells are attacked and killed by the virus. The T cells are the quarterbacks of the immune system. Imagine playing a football game without a quarterback. It is a breakdown in the immune system which in turn leads to leaving people with practically no ability to fight off anything from the common cold to flu. What might not have killed them before now is life threatening with the weakening of the immune system. There is no cure for AIDS. But there is a cocktail of prescription drugs that are available ot those who can afford it that gives many years of comfortable living.