Substances taken into the body
There are two main categories of substances taken into the body:
1. Nutrients - these are essential for growth, development, and maintenance of the body. They include carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals.
2. Drugs and other substances - these are taken for medicinal or recreational purposes. They can include prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, illegal drugs, alcohol, tobacco, and caffeine.
Other substances that may be taken into the body include toxins, pollutants, and allergens, which can have negative effects on health.
Substances can be taken into the body through various methods. Here are some common ways:
1. Ingestion: This is the process of taking substances into the body through the mouth. It can include eating food, drinking liquids such as water or beverages, or swallowing pills or capsules.
2. Inhalation: Substances can be taken into the body through inhalation by breathing them in. Examples include inhaling smoke from tobacco products, vapor from e-cigarettes, or fumes from industrial chemicals.
3. Injection: Injection involves using a needle and syringe to deliver substances directly into the bloodstream or body tissues. This method allows for rapid absorption into the body and is commonly used for medications, vaccines, or illegal drugs.
4. Absorption: Certain substances can enter the body through the skin or mucous membranes. This can occur from topical application of creams, lotions, or ointments, or through contact with toxic substances like chemicals or toxins.
5. Transdermal patches: Some medications, such as nicotine or pain-relieving patches, are designed to be applied to the skin. The medication is slowly absorbed into the bloodstream over time.
6. Suppositories: These are solid or liquid medications that are inserted into the rectum or . They dissolve or melt, releasing the medication into the body.
It's important to note that while many substances taken into the body are necessary for proper functioning (like food and medicine), others may be harmful or illegal (like drugs or toxic chemicals). Always follow proper guidelines and consult medical professionals when consuming substances for health and safety reasons.