The digestive system is the body system that breaks down food into nutrients that can be used by the body. The digestive system also allows nutrients to be absorbed by body cells and waste materials to be eliminated from the body.

Digestion Digestion is the process by which food is changed so that it can be absorbed by body cells.

Process of Digestion 1.Mouth 2.Esophagus 3.Stomach 4.Small intestine 5.Large intestine 6.Rectum 7.Anus

Mouth Food is chewed – mechanical digestion Salivary glands – glands in the mouth that release saliva, which contains a chemical that begins the digestion of carbohydrates Saliva – fluid that helps soften food so that it can be swallowed more easily Taste buds are on the tongue and send nerve impulses to brain that register basic flavor sensations: sweet, salty, sour, or bitter

Esophagus Esophagus – tube that connects the mouth to the stomach Tube next to trachea Peristalsis – involuntary muscle contractions that move the food down your esophagus and into your stomach

Stomach Produces gastric acids and juices that mix with food and produce thick paste called chyme Food will be stored in the stomach for approximately four hours and then muscle contractions will force chyme into small intestine

Small Intestine Place where the greatest amount of digestion and absorption takes place About 21 feet of coiled tube and is lined with villi Villi – small folds in the lining of the small intestine that increase the surface area and allow more food to be absorbed Several enzymes are produced in the lining Enzyme – protein that regulates chemical reactions

Large Intestine Also called the colon A tube extending from the small intestine in which undigested food is prepared for elimination from the body When the large intestine is full, it contracts, and solid waste leaves the body through the rectum and anus

Rectum/Anus Rectum - the lower end of the large intestine that stores wastes temporarily Anus – the opening to the outside of the body at the end of the rectum

Liver Secretes bile to help break down fats Maintains blood sugar levels Filters poisonous wastes Bile is stored in the gallbladder, which is a small sac-like organ located under the liver

Pancreas Produces both digestive enzymes and insulin Enzymes break down proteins, starches, and fats from food in the small intestine

How to Keep your Digestive System Healthy Choose a variety of foods everyday and eat plenty of foods that contain fiber. Fiber stimulates digestive tract muscles Eat whole-grain breads and cereals, as well as fruits and vegetables Chew slowly and enjoy your food. Do not rush Drink at least six to eight glasses of water each day