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Introduction to the Gastrointestinal Tract and Nutrient Utilization

Audio transcript; narrated by Annette Buyserie, Oregon State University

The gastrointestinal tract or GI tract is a series of external organs. The anatomy and physiology of the GI tract determine the feedstuffs of a diet and subsequent efficiency of nutrient utilization by the animal. The primary objective of the GI tract is to convert complex compounds found in the feedstuffs to simple compounds that may be subsequently absorbed and metabolized by body tissues for maintenance and production purposes.

The two primary functions of the GI tract are digestion and absorption. Digestion is essential for efficient absorption. Digestion is defined as the process of converting complex compounds consumed in the feedstuffs into simple absorbable compounds. Absorption is defined as the process in which simple compounds cross the cellular membranes of the GI tract and enter the circulatory or lymph system and are transported to tissues of the body. Absorption transports nutrients to the interior of the body.

The characteristics of the GI tract of each species determine the feedstuffs consumed and utilized. Knowledge of the specific GI tract and appropriate feedstuffs will result in the most efficient use of the feedstuffs to promote maintenance and production functions.

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