Overview of the Human Digestive System

Salivary Glands

Glands producing saliva for digestion.

Nutrient

Chemical essential for organism survival.

Gastrointestinal Tract

Tube from mouth to anus for digestion.

Ingestion

Entry of food into the digestive system.

Digestion

Breakdown of food into simpler components.

Absorption

Nutrients enter circulatory system from intestines.

Egestion

Removal of waste materials from the body.

Amylase

Enzyme breaking down carbohydrates in saliva.

Peristalsis

Rhythmic muscle contractions moving food through esophagus.

Chyme

Semi-liquid mixture of food and gastric juice.

Gastric Juices

Fluids aiding digestion in the stomach.

Pepsin

Enzyme digesting proteins into polypeptides.

Villi

Finger-like projections increasing absorption surface area.

Microvilli

Tiny projections on villi enhancing absorption area.

Duodenum

First section of small intestine for digestion.

Jejunum

Middle section of small intestine for absorption.

Ileum

Final section of small intestine completing absorption.

Pancreas

Secretes digestive enzymes and regulates glucose.

Bile

Substance emulsifying fats for digestion.

Large Intestine

Absorbs water and minerals from waste.

Rectum

Storage area for feces in large intestine.

Feces

Undigested material eliminated from the body.

Hydrochloric Acid

Strong acid aiding digestion in the stomach.

Constipation

Condition from excessive water absorption in intestines.

Diarrhea

Condition from insufficient water absorption in intestines.