* Ingestion: Taking in food and water through the mouth.
* Digestion: Breaking down food into smaller molecules that can be absorbed by the body. This involves both mechanical (chewing) and chemical processes (enzymes).
* Excretion: Eliminating waste products from the body. This includes undigested food, excess water, and byproducts of metabolism.
The digestive system consists of several organs, including:
* Mouth: Where food enters and begins to be broken down.
* Esophagus: A tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach.
* Stomach: A muscular sac where food is further broken down by acids and enzymes.
* Small intestine: The primary site of nutrient absorption.
* Large intestine: Where water is absorbed and waste is formed.
* Rectum: The final portion of the large intestine where waste is stored before elimination.
* Anus: The opening through which waste is expelled.
While the digestive system focuses on these primary functions, it works closely with other systems like the circulatory system (to transport nutrients) and the nervous system (to regulate digestion).
