What is the digestive system?

The digestive system is the group of organs that helps out bodies break down food. It turns food into nutrients and energy that help us grow, more, and stay healthy. 

The mouth

Digestion starts in the mouth. Your teeth chew food into smaller pieces. Saliva, or spit helps soften the food so it is easier to swallow. 

Ingestion 

Ingestion means taking food and drinks into the body through the mouth. This is the first step of digestion. 

The esophagus 

After you swallow, food travels down a long rube called the esophagus. The esophagus connects the mouth to the stomach. 

The stomach 

The stomach is like a mixing bag. It churns food and mixes it with strong digestive juices. 

The Small intestine 

The Small intestine is a long, twisty tube. This is where most nutrients from food are absorbed into the body.

The liver and pancreas

The liver and pancreas help with digestion too. The liver makes bile to help break down fats. The pancreas makes juices that help digest food. 

The large intestine 

The large intestine absorbs water from leftover food. It helps turn waste into solid waste called stool.