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 …

It helps you with daily functions like eating, speaking and breathing. Taking care of your mouth can keep you healthy and reduce your risk for a wide range of dental and medical conditions.

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 …

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 …

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.

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 …

Jan 30, 2025 · Smooth muscle is a type of muscle that’s key to many of your body’s vital functions. It plays a role in blood circulation, digestion, eyesight and much more.

Jun 3, 2025 · Function What do salivary glands do? Your salivary glands’ main job is to make lots of saliva (spit). Consider this: if you’re an adult, your salivary glands make about one to two …

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 …