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Digestive system

The digestive system.

The digestive system is responsible for breaking down food, absorbing nutrients from the food, and ridding the body of waste products from the food. The digestive system consists of the:

  • Upper digestive tract, which includes the mouth, esophagus, stomach, and first part of the small intestine.
  • Lower digestive tract, which includes the last part of the small intestine, the large intestine, and the rectum.
  • Liver, pancreas, and gallbladder.

Current as of: October 19, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

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