Page 25 - Ebook Digestive System Grade XI

Structure and Function of the Human Digestive System

Food in the body goes through four stages, namely Ingestion (the process of
putting food into the mouth), digestion (digestion), Absorption (absorption), and
Defecation (expenditure at the time).
Food enters the mouth, and the digestive process begins. Digestion is
breaking down food into small molecules so the body can absorb it through the
blood vessels. Furthermore, food molecules from the blood enter the cell across
the cell membrane. Molecules that are not used and needed by the body will be
removed through an excretory system, such as sweat and urine. Undigested food
in the form of feces will be excreted through the anus, and this process is called
Defecation.

Food Digestive Organs
In the body, processing Food into energy is very
dependent on the human digestive system. This
system is quite complex because the body will also
absorb the results for cell growth and repair for human
survival. The human digestive system allows us to
obtain nutrients and energy from various types of food
or drink. Both are needed in metabolic processes,
repair of cells and body tissues, and support daily
activities, such as moving, breathing, studying, and
working. Digestive organs function to digest food so
that the small intestine can absorb it. The food
digestive tract includes the mouth, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large
intestine, and anus.

1. Mouth
In the mouth, mechanical and chemical
digestion occurs. In the mouth, there are teeth,
tongue, and salivary glands. Digestion of Food is
divided into two types: mechanical digestion and
chemical digestion. Mechanical digestion occurs
when chewed Food is mixed and kneaded.

Figure 8. Mouth structure and function

16