Food is pushed through the digestive tract by a process called peristalsis. Here's how it works:

1. Muscles in the walls of the digestive tract contract in a wave-like motion.

2. These contractions squeeze the food forward along the digestive tract, moving it from the esophagus, through the stomach, and into the small and large intestines.

3. The process is involuntary – you don't have to think about it! It's controlled by the nervous system and hormones.

Peristalsis is crucial for:

* Moving food: It ensures food travels in the right direction.

* Mixing food: It helps mix food with digestive juices, which break it down.

* Eliminating waste: It pushes waste products through the intestines and out of the body.

Let me know if you have any other questions!