Learn more about how your digestive system works and how it performs the essential task of breaking down and absorbing the food and fluids you consume each day.

What is the stomach? The stomach is a J-shaped organ that digests food. It produces enzymes (substances that create chemical reactions) and acids (digestive juices). This mix of enzymes and …

Your mouth is responsible for many functions, including eating, breathing and speaking. Taking care of your mouth can keep you in good health.

Your gallbladder is connected to other parts of your digestive system through a series of bile ducts called the biliary tract. The biliary tract (sometimes called biliary system or biliary tree) is a pipe-like …

Mar 3, 2023 · The primary function of the rectum is to collect and hold your poop until it’s time to release it. Your rectum relaxes and stretches to accommodate the waste as it gradually comes in from your …

Your small intestine (small bowel) is an organ in your gastrointestinal tract and is part of your digestive system. It breaks down food and fluid to absorb nutrients and water.

A note from Cleveland Clinic Your digestive and respiratory systems depend on a healthy pharynx (throat). Your pharynx helps get air to your lungs and food and fluid to your stomach. You can keep …

May 13, 2024 · It helps your body break down fats in the foods you eat and makes it easier for digestive enzymes to do their job. While you may not think about bile much, it’s an important part of your …

Jan 30, 2025 · This tissue is part of your body’s most important functions, ranging from blood pressure and circulation to vision to how you digest food. Conditions that affect smooth muscle specifically …

Your large intestine receives the liquid food waste that’s left after your small intestine completes its part of the digestive process. It absorbs water and salts from the liquid waste and turns it into solid waste …