Written by Awes khan certified supplement specialist and nutritionist

What is the digestive system

What is the Digestive System?

"Dismantling the Body's Food Factory" Have you ever wondered what happens to your food after you swallow it? A group of organs known as the "digestive system" is responsible for the fascinating journey that a burger, apple, or pizza slice takes through your body. The Digestive System's Function In theory, the digestive system's primary function is to "break down food," "absorb nutrients," and "eliminate waste." However, in the background, it is a well-planned process that entails mechanical motion, chemical reactions, and coordination among various organs. Introducing the Digestive Organs A quick look at the main components of this system and what they do is as follows:

1) Mouth:

The moment you take a bite, your digestion kicks in. While saliva, produced by salivary glands, begins chemically breaking down the food, your teeth grind it.

2) Esophagus:

This muscular tube acts like a food slide, moving chewed food from the mouth to the stomach using a wave-like motion called peristalsis

3) Stomach:

Think of this as a food processor. It churns and mixes food with digestive juices (including acid) to break it down further into a semi-liquid form called chyme.

4) Small Intestine:

This is where most digestion and nutrient absorption happens. It is lined with "villi," which are tiny finger-like projections that take in nutrients and deliver them into the bloodstream.

5) Your liver and pancreas are your digestive aids.

To aid in the digestion of fats, the liver produces bile, which is stored in the gallbladder, and the pancreas releases enzymes that break down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.

6) Large Intestine (Colon):

This is where nutrients that aren't used up are moved after they are absorbed. The body absorbs water and produces waste in the form of stool for elimination. 7. The final stop is Rectum and Anus. Waste is stored in the rectum and then expelled through the anus.

Why is Digestion Important?

Your body needs energy and nutrients to function, from powering your brain to repairing cells, in every bite. Without the digestive system, your body wouldn’t be able to access the fuel it needs.

The Digestive System: Fun Facts - The entire digestive tract is about 30 feet long!

In order to avoid being digested by its own acid, your stomach lining replaces itself every 3–4 days. - It takes about "24 to 72" hours for food to move through the entire digestive system.

Although the digestive system operates secretly, it is essential to maintaining your health and vitality. The next time you eat, take a moment to appreciate the amazing journey your food is about to begin!