Digestive Dynamics: Understanding the GI System
Immersify

Digestive Dynamics: Understanding the GI System

Hilary Gupte
Maxwell Boardman
Chloe Barrett

Instructors: Hilary Gupte

Included with Coursera Plus

Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Beginner level

Recommended experience

3 hours to complete
3 weeks at 1 hour a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Beginner level

Recommended experience

3 hours to complete
3 weeks at 1 hour a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace

What you'll learn

  • Learners will explore the functions of key digestive organs and their role in metabolism

  • Learners will understand how the body absorbs nutrients and eliminates waste

  • Learners will apply digestive system knowledge to case studies, such as GERD and IBS

Details to know

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Recently updated!

March 2025

Assessments

15 assignments

Taught in English

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This course is part of the Interactive 3D Anatomy & Physiology: A Gamified Experience Specialization
When you enroll in this course, you'll also be enrolled in this Specialization.
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There are 4 modules in this course

This lesson introduces learners to the upper gastrointestinal (GI) tract, emphasizing its critical role in the digestive process. Students will explore the structure and function of the oral cavity, esophagus, and their associated components. Through a detailed overview, learners will gain insight into the initial stages of digestion, including mechanical and chemical processes, and understand how food is prepared for further breakdown in the stomach.

What's included

4 videos1 reading5 assignments

This lesson focuses on the anatomy and functions of the stomach and its role in the digestive process, as well as the structural support provided by the peritoneum and mesenteries. Learners will explore the regions of the stomach, their specialized roles in digestion, and the interaction between mechanical and chemical processes that break down food. Additionally, the lesson covers the peritoneum and mesenteries, highlighting their importance in supporting and connecting abdominal organs within the digestive system.

What's included

4 videos1 reading5 assignments

In this lesson, learners explored the role of sphincters and intestines in the gastrointestinal system. The importance of sphincters in regulating the movement of food and materials throughout the digestive tract was highlighted, emphasizing their role in preventing backflow and ensuring proper digestion. The structure and functions of the small intestine were detailed, with a focus on its sections, the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum, and their contributions to nutrient absorption. Finally, learners examined the large intestine, understanding its role in water absorption, waste formation, and the significant contribution of gut microbiota to overall digestive health.

What's included

4 videos1 reading5 assignments

This lesson explores the causes, symptoms, and management of common gastrointestinal (GI) disorders, including GERD, peptic ulcers, IBS, IBD, and colorectal cancer. By examining these conditions through real-world case studies, learners will gain an understanding of how disruptions in the GI system affect digestion, nutrient absorption, and overall health. The lesson emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis, lifestyle adjustments, and medical interventions in managing these disorders and maintaining GI health.

What's included

5 videos

Instructors

Hilary Gupte
Immersify
6 Courses90 learners

Offered by

Immersify

Recommended if you're interested in Basic Science

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