The Digestive System
The digestive system is a group of organs working together to convert food into energy and basic nutrients to feed the entire body. Food passes through a long tube inside the body known as the alimentary canal or the gastrointestinal tract (GI tract). The alimentary canal is made up of the oral cavity, pharynx, esophagus, stomach, small intestines, and large intestines.
Organs of the Digestive System
- 1. Mouth: Food enters the digestive system through the mouth. The process of chewing and salivary enzymes in the mouth are the beginning of the digestive process.
- 2. Esophagus: After being chewed and swallowed, the food enters the esophagus. The esophagus is a long tube that runs from the mouth to the stomach.
- 3. Stomach: The stomach is a J-shaped organ where the digestion continues with the help of gastric juices and enzymes.
- 4. Small Intestine: The small intestine is where the majority of digestion and absorption of nutrients takes place. It is made up of three segments: the duodenum, the jejunum, and the ileum.
- 5. Large Intestine: The large intestine is responsible for processing waste so that defecation is convenient and not messy. It also absorbs some vitamins and water.
- 6. Liver and Pancreas: These organs are not part of the alimentary canal, but they play a vital role in the digestive process. The liver produces bile, which helps break down fats, and the pancreas produces digestive enzymes that help break down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.
Functions of the Digestive System
The digestive system has three main functions: digestion, absorption, and elimination. Digestion is the process of breaking down food into its smaller parts. Absorption is the process of taking in nutrients and elimination is the process of getting rid of waste.
Study Guide
- What are the main organs of the digestive system?
- Describe the function of the liver and pancreas in the digestive system.
- What are the three main functions of the digestive system?
- Explain the process of digestion in the stomach.
- What are the three segments of the small intestine?
Understanding the digestive system is essential to understanding how our bodies process food and obtain the nutrients necessary for survival.
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