What is the digestive system?

The digestive system is a group of organs working together to convert food into energy and basic nutrients to feed the entire body. Food passes through a long tube inside the body known as the alimentary canal or the gastrointestinal tract (GI tract). read more

The digestive system is made up of the gastrointestinal tract—also called the GI tract or digestive tract—and the liver, pancreas, and gallbladder. The GI tract is a series of hollow organs joined in a long, twisting tube from the mouth to the anus. read more

The anus is the last part of the digestive tract. It consists of the pelvic floor muscles and the two anal sphincters (internal and external muscles). The lining of the upper anus is specialized to detect rectal contents. read more

The digestive system is the group of organs that break down food in order to absorb its nutrients. The nutrients in food are used by the body as fuel to keep all the body systems working. The leftover parts of food which cannot be broken down, digested, or absorbed are excreted as bowel movements (stool). read more