What path does food take as it moves through the human digestive system?
Quick Answer
Food enters the human digestive system through the mouth before then moving through the pharynx, esophagus, stomach, intestines, rectum and anus. In the mouth, food is chewed and broken down into small pieces suitable for digestion. The mouth produces more saliva to break down food into a form that the body can use and absorb. Next, food slides down the pharynx, which is also called the throat. Food is further swallowed in the pharynx as a reflex.
Continue Reading
Full Answer
Food passes through the esophagus, which extends from the pharynx and behind the trachea, on its way to the stomach. Food is pushed through this muscular tube and into the stomach through a series of involuntary muscle contractions called peristalses. Near the opening to the stomach, the lower esophageal sphincter opens to allow food to pass into the stomach and closes to keep the food from going back into the esophagus. Stomach glands secrete enzymes and acid that turn the food into a liquefied substance called chyme. Glands also secrete mucous, which protects the stomach from ulcers. After a while, the food is reduced to chyme or sometimes a pasty, solid substance. This substance enters the small and large intestines. The small intestine further breaks down the food by producing digestive enzymes. The large intestine removes water and electrolytes from the food. Finally, the waste product is stored in the rectum and excreted through the anus.
Learn more about Human AnatomyRelated Questions
-
Q:
What are the parts of the alimentary canal in order?
A: The parts of the alimentary canal listed in order are the mouth, pharynx or throat, esophagus, stomach, small intestine and large intestine. The alimentary... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What is a gastrointestinal (GI) bleed?
A: Gastrointestinal bleeding occurs in any part of the gastrointestinal tract, including the stomach, esophagus, small and large intestines, rectum or anus, a... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
What food tube carries food between the pharynx and the stomach?
A: The esophagus is the muscular tube in humans and most other vertebrate organisms that carries food from the pharynx, or throat, down to the stomach. It is ... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
Where are the mucous membranes located?
A: Mucous membranes are located in the mouth, nasal passages, throat, stomach, eyelids, intestines, anus and vulva. They can be thought of as special outer co... Full Answer >Filed Under:
