Learn more about how your digestive system works and how it performs the essential task of breaking down and absorbing the food and fluids you consume each day.

What is the stomach? The stomach is a J-shaped organ that digests food. It produces enzymes (substances that create chemical reactions) and acids (digestive juices). This mix of enzymes and …

Your gallbladder is connected to other parts of your digestive system through a series of bile ducts called the biliary tract. The biliary tract (sometimes called biliary system or biliary tree) is a pipe-like …

Mouth Your mouth is part of your digestive and respiratory systems. It helps you with daily functions like eating, speaking and breathing. Taking care of your mouth can keep you healthy and reduce your …

May 12, 2021 · Enzymes aid chemical reactions in our bodies. They help with digestion, liver function and more. Enzyme imbalances cause health problems.

Jun 3, 2025 · Function What do salivary glands do? Your salivary glands’ main job is to make lots of saliva (spit). Consider this: if you’re an adult, your salivary glands make about one to two liters (one …

Your pharynx (throat) is a multitasking muscular funnel that helps you breathe and directs food and liquid to your digestive system. You can keep your pharynx healthy by quitting smoking and …

Sep 26, 2025 · Your liver performs more than 500 important functions, from filtering blood and processing nutrients to fighting infections. It creates bile and important proteins your body needs.

Your small intestine (small bowel) is an organ in your gastrointestinal tract and is part of your digestive system. It breaks down food and fluid to absorb nutrients and water.

Mar 3, 2023 · The primary function of the rectum is to collect and hold your poop until it’s time to release it. Your rectum relaxes and stretches to accommodate the waste as it gradually comes in from your …