Digestive system

Digestive system is a complex series of organs and glands that processes food. In order to use the food we eat, our body has to break the food down into smaller molecules that it can process; it also has to excrete waste.

Anatomy of the Digestive System

The digestive system is made up of the gastrointestinal tract—also called the GI tract or digestive tract—and the liver, pancreas, and gallbladder. The GI tract is a series of hollow organs joined in a long, twisting tube from the mouth to the anus. The hollow organs that make up the GI tract are the mouth, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, and anus.

Function of the Digestive System

The digestive system helps the body digest food. Nutrients from the food are used in the body for energy, growth, and cell repair.

Diseases of the Digestive System

Diseases of the digestive system can affect the structure and function of the digestive system, leading to symptoms such as constipation, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. These diseases include gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcer disease, and Crohn's disease.

Treatment of Digestive System Diseases

Treatment of digestive system diseases often involves dietary changes, medication, and in severe cases, surgery. The specific treatment depends on the type of digestive system disease.

See Also

• Gastrointestinal tract
• Liver
• Pancreas
• Gallbladder
• Esophagus
• Small intestine
• Large intestine
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease
• Peptic ulcer disease
• Crohn's disease

Digestive system Resources
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