Page 101 - Life Insurance underwriting Ebook IC 22

CHAPTER –13

GASTROINTESTINAL/DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

1. Describe the digestive system and its components.

1.1 Introduction to digestive system

The Digestive system or gastrointestinal system or Alimentary system (GI) is a
group of organs which are responsible for the process of digestion, it begins with the
mouth where the food enters and ends with anus from where the solid waste material
leaves the body.

1.2 Parts of the Digestive tract / Alimentary canal

The parts of the alimentary or digestive tract include:

a) Mouth
b) Pharynx and esophagus
c) Stomach
d) Small intestine
e) Large Intestine
f) Rectum and anus

The main accessory glands and organs include

a) Salivary gland
b) Liver
c) Gall bladder
d) Pancreas

1.3 The main functions of the digestive system include:

a) Digestion - the process by which complex foods are converted into chemical
substances small enough to be absorbed

b) Absorption - the passage of materials through the walls of the intestine into the
blood stream.

c) Defecation - the expulsion of waste products of digestion. These are eliminated
from the body through the anus.

1.4 Parts of the Digestive tract / Alimentary canal

a) Mouth and Pharynx - The mouth consists of lips, tongue and teeth. The teeth
cut and grind the food by chewing.

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