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## Overview of the Digestive System * **It's function is to break down large food particles into smaller ones that can pass across the membrane of cells during absorption.** * **Two main groups make up the DS.** 1. **Organs of the gastrointestinal tract (GI) & this is a tube extending from mouth...

## Overview of the Digestive System * **It's function is to break down large food particles into smaller ones that can pass across the membrane of cells during absorption.** * **Two main groups make up the DS.** 1. **Organs of the gastrointestinal tract (GI) & this is a tube extending from mouth to anus.** 2. **Accessory structures: teeth, tongue and glands, they aid the mechanical and chemical breakdown of foods. Liver, pancreas, gallbladder.** ### Digestion Process * **The process of digestion begins when food enters the oral cavity: the food is processed and moistened with secretions.** * **Pharynx: no digestion occurs as food passes** * **The organ for transporting food to the stomach is the muscular esophagus, once the food enters the stomach it is mixed with acid and protein digesting enzymes.** * **Passing from the stomach food enters the 20-foot Small intestine: the main processes of digestion and absorption occur here.** * **It leads to the Large intestine: nondigested material is dehydrated and compacted in this organ.**