Digestive tube

Digestive Tube

The digestive tube, also known as the gastrointestinal tract, digestive tract, GI tract, GIT, or gut, is an organ system within humans and other animals which takes in food, digests it to extract and absorb energy and nutrients, and expels the remaining waste as feces.

Anatomy

The digestive tube is a long, continuous, hollow organ that begins at the mouth and ends at the anus. It includes the following organs: mouth, pharynx, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and large intestine. The length of the digestive tube in an adult human is about 30 feet (9 meters).

Function

The main functions of the digestive tube are ingestion, digestion, absorption, and defecation.

• Ingestion: This is the process of taking food into the body through the mouth.
• Digestion: This is the breakdown of large food molecules into smaller ones. This process is divided into two types: mechanical digestion and chemical digestion.
• Absorption: This is the uptake of the end products of digestion into the bloodstream and lymphatic system for distribution to the cells.
• Defecation: This is the elimination of indigestible substances from the body via the anus.

Diseases and Disorders

There are many diseases and disorders that can affect the digestive tube. These include gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcer disease, gallstones, celiac disease, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, diverticulitis, cancer, and hemorrhoids.

Treatment

Treatment for diseases and disorders of the digestive tube depends on the specific condition. It may include lifestyle changes, medication, or surgery. In some cases, a combination of these treatments may be necessary.

See Also

• Digestive system
• Human gastrointestinal tract
• Gastroenterology

Digestive tube Resources
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