12/08/2026
Human Digestive System
The digestive system is a group of organs that helps our body digest food and absorb nutrients. Digestion changes complex food into simple substances that can be absorbed and used by the body.
Main Parts of the Digestive System
The main organs of the human digestive system are:
Mouth
Pharynx
Oesophagus
Stomach
Small Intestine
Large Intestine
Re**um
A**s
1. Mouth
Digestion begins in the mouth. Teeth break food into smaller pieces, while saliva moistens the food. The enzyme salivary amylase starts the digestion of starch.
2. Pharynx and Oesophagus
The pharynx passes food from the mouth into the oesophagus. The oesophagus is a muscular tube that moves food toward the stomach by peristalsis.
3. Stomach
The stomach is a muscular, J-shaped organ. It stores food and mixes it with gastric juice. Hydrochloric acid (HCl) and enzymes help digest proteins and kill many harmful microorganisms.
4. Small Intestine
The small intestine is the main site of digestion and absorption. Digestive juices from the pancreas and liver help break down carbohydrates, proteins, and fats.
The inner wall contains tiny finger-like structures called villi. Villi increase the surface area for the absorption of nutrients into the blood.
5. Large Intestine
The large intestine absorbs water and some salts from the remaining undigested material. It helps form and store faeces.
6. Re**um and A**s
The re**um stores faeces temporarily. The a**s is the opening through which faeces are eliminated from the body.
Accessory Digestive Organs
Important accessory organs include:
Liver: Produces bile, which helps in the digestion of fats.
Gallbladder: Stores and concentrates bile.
Pancreas: Produces digestive enzymes and bicarbonate.
Conclusion
The digestive system plays an essential role in providing the body with nutrients and energy. It digests food, absorbs useful substances, and removes undigested waste from the body.