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2 Structure and Function of
The Human Digestive
System
Structure and Function of the Human Digestive System
The digestive system, or gastrointestinal system, consists of several
digestive organs. The human digestive system is divided into two main groups,
namely the internal organs of the digestive tract and the accessory digestive
organs. The human digestive tract, also known as the gastrointestinal tract, is a
tube that extends from the mouth to the anus. This channel serves to digest, break
down, and absorb food nutrients which are then passed through the blood
circulation.
The organs of the digestive tract include the mouth, esophagus (gullet),
stomach, small intestine, large intestine, rectum, and anus. Meanwhile, the
complementary digestive organs are the mouth, gall bladder, salivary glands,
liver, and pancreas. Digestion in our bodies is very important because the body
needs nutrients from food and fluids from drinks to function normally. Nutrients
from food are needed for energy formation, growth, and tissue repair.
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