The digestive system is a group of organs that work together to break down food, absorb nutrients, and remove waste. Its main parts and functions are:
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Mouth – Food enters the body here. Teeth break food into smaller pieces (mechanical digestion), and saliva begins chemical digestion, especially of carbohydrates.
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Esophagus – A muscular tube that moves food from the mouth to the stomach through peristalsis (wave-like contractions).
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Stomach – Mixes food with acids and enzymes to break it down further, especially proteins, turning food into a semi-liquid mixture called chyme.
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Small Intestine – The main site of digestion and nutrient absorption. Enzymes from the pancreas and bile from the liver help digest fats, proteins, and carbohydrates.
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Liver – Produces bile, which helps digest fats, and processes absorbed nutrients.
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Gallbladder – Stores and releases bile into the small intestine.
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Pancreas – Secretes digestive enzymes and bicarbonate to neutralize stomach acid.
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Large Intestine (Colon) – Absorbs water and minerals and forms solid waste (feces).
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Rectum and Anus – Store and eliminate waste from the body.
- Teacher: Maria Carmina De Guzman
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