Human digestive system
Human Digestive System
The Human Digestive System (pronounced: /ˈhjuːmən daɪˈdʒɛstɪv ˈsɪstəm/) is a complex series of organs and glands that process food. It is also known as the gastrointestinal tract or GI tract.
Etymology
The term "digestive system" is derived from the Latin word "digestio", which means distribution. The term "gastrointestinal tract" is derived from the Greek words "gastro" (stomach), "enteron" (intestine), and "tractus" (a course or path).
Anatomy of the Human Digestive System
The human digestive system consists of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and large intestine, along with several accessory organs like the liver, pancreas, and gallbladder.
Esophagus
The esophagus is a muscular tube that connects the throat (pharynx) with the stomach.
Stomach
The stomach is a muscular organ located on the left side of the upper abdomen that receives food from the esophagus.
Small Intestine
The small intestine is a long, highly convoluted tube in the digestive system that absorbs about 90% of the nutrients from the food we eat.
Large Intestine
The large intestine is a muscular tube that connects the small intestine to the rectum. It absorbs water and electrolytes from the remaining indigestible food matter.
Accessory Organs
The accessory organs of the digestive system include the liver, pancreas, and gallbladder. These organs play a crucial role in digestion by producing and storing enzymes and other substances necessary for food breakdown.
Liver
The liver is a large, meaty organ that sits on the right side of the belly. It detoxifies chemicals and metabolizes drugs.
Pancreas
The pancreas is an organ located in the abdomen. It plays an essential role in converting the food we eat into fuel for the body's cells.
Gallbladder
The gallbladder is a small pouch that sits just under the liver. It stores bile, a compound produced by the liver to digest fat.
Function of the Human Digestive System
The primary function of the human digestive system is to break down food into small molecules that can be absorbed into the bloodstream and used by the body's cells. The digestive system also eliminates waste products.
Related Terms
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