The digestive system is responsible for absorbing consumed food and liquids and converting them into substances the body can use for energy, growth, and tissue repair. It is comprised of the mouth, pharynx, esophagus, stomach, small and large intestines, rectum, and anus. It also includes salivary glands, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas all of which produce digestive juices and enzymes that help digest food and liquids.

Tooth – breaks down food by crushing or cutting them, making them easier to swallow

Tongue – aids in chewing, swallowing, speaking, breathing, and tasting.

Esophagus – connects the pharynx to the stomach and serves as the passageway of food and liquid

Small intestine – helps to further digest food coming from the stomach. It absorbs nutrients and water so they can be used by the body. It has three parts the duodenum, ileum, and jejunum.

Large intestine – absorbs water and electrolytes, produces and absorbs vitamins and forms the feces and propels it toward the rectum for elimination

Pancreas – located behind the stomach, it produces pancreatic juices that aid in digestion. These enzymes break down sugars, fats and starches. It also produces insulin which allows the body to use glucose for energy.

Liver – produces bile that helps in the digestion of food, metabolizes proteins, carbohydrates, and fats so the body can use them, and stores glycogen and vitamins