Languages:

Digestive tract

Similar term(s): gastrointestinal tract, digestive system, GI tract, alimentary canal.

Definition:

The digestive tract is the system of organs which takes in food, digests it to extract energy and nutrients and expels remaining waste. It includes the mouth, salivary glands, esophagus, stomach, pancreas, liver, gallbladder, small intestine, large intestine, and rectum.

After food is chewed and swallowed, the digestive juices released by the pancreas and stomach break it down into substances that are readily absorbed through the small intestine. Material that is not taken up by the body collects in the large intestine, forming faecal matter that is then excreted through the anus.

Source: GreenFacts

More:
Digestive system digestive system
  1. Colon
  2. Rectum

Source: Mariana Ruiz Villarreal  (public domain)

Translation(s):

Deutsch: Verdauungstrakt
Español: Aparato digestivo
Français: Appareil digestif

Related publications:
FacebookTwitterEmail
  • ABC - DEF - GHI - JKL - MNO - PQRS - TUV - WXYZ
  • Themes covered
    Publications A-Z
    Leaflets

    Get involved!

    This summary is free and ad-free, as is all of our content. You can help us remain free and independant as well as to develop new ways to communicate science by becoming a Patron!

    PatreonBECOME A PATRON!