The human digestive system consists of a group of organs that break the food, absorb and eject waste substances from the body. Digestion begins in the ____ where salivary glands release ____ to break the food. Chewed food then travels to the stomach through ____. Different acids are produced in the stomach to help break down food. These acids are dangerous, as they can burn the stomach. To prevent this, the stomach is coated in a slimy substance called ____. From the stomach, liquid food travels to the ____ where it is absorbed through "tentacles" called ____. The additional organs like pancreas and ____ release ____ to help absorb nutrients in the small intestines. Nutrients absorbed from the small intestines are sent to the liver where it ____ toxins and turns it into waste. The leftover liquid food is sent to the ____. It is the last chance for the body to orb ____ and nutrients before it is stored in the ____ as faeces.
Answer (1)
The human digestive system is a complex series of organs and glands that processes food. The purpose of digestion is to break down food into smaller components that the body can use for energy, growth, and cell repair.
Digestion begins in the mouth , where the salivary glands release enzymes to break down food. Two important enzymes present in saliva are amylase, which begins the digestion of carbohydrates, and lipase, which begins the digestion of fats.
Chewed food then travels to the stomach through the esophagus. This process of moving the food is known as peristalsis, a series of wave-like muscle contractions.
Different acids are produced in the stomach to help break down food. The primary acid in the stomach is hydrochloric acid (HCl), which creates an acidic environment that assists in the breakdown of food and kills bacteria.
To prevent the stomach from being damaged by these acids, it is coated in a slimy substance called mucus. Mucus provides a protective layer against the acidity.
From the stomach, liquid food travels to the small intestine where it is absorbed through structures called villi. Villi are tiny, finger-like projections that increase the surface area for absorption of nutrients.
Additional organs like the pancreas and liver release enzymes to help absorb nutrients in the small intestine. The pancreas produces enzymes like trypsin and lipase, while the liver produces bile stored in the gallbladder, which helps break down fats.
Nutrients absorbed from the small intestines are sent to the liver, where it detoxifies harmful substances and turns waste into substances like urea, which is excreted by the kidneys.
The leftover liquid food is sent to the large intestine. The large intestine's main job is to absorb water and any remaining nutrients, turning the waste into solid feces.
The remaining waste is stored in the rectum before it is expelled from the body as feces.
Understanding the various components and processes of the digestive system is crucial for appreciating how our bodies utilize food and maintain overall health.
