Gastrointestinal Tract Functions
The gastrointestinal (GI) tract, also known as the alimentary canal, has the following functions:
- Ingestion or intake of the food through the mouth.
- Mechanical breakdown of the food into small particles.
- By the action of the enzymes the food is chemically broken down into simpler form for absorption.
- Absorption of the nutrients, water and electrolytes from digested food into the bloodstream.
- Release of digestive enzymes, acids, and other substances from glands such as salivary glands, stomach, and pancreas that facilitates digestion.
- Beneficial bacteria in the large intestine ferment undigested carbohydrates, producing vitamins and gases.
- Absorption of the water and nutrients take place in the large intestine and liquid chyme is converted into solid faeces.
- Indigestible waste (feces) is expelled from the body through the rectum and anus.
Gastrointestinal Tract – Diagram, Anatomy, & Disorders
The gastrointestinal (GI) tract is a long, twisting tube made up of hollow organs that starts at the mouth and ends at the anus. It comprises organs such as the mouth, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and large intestine. Food taken in through the mouth undergoes the process of digestion in the stomach, absorption of nutrients and energy in the small intestine, and the waste stored in the large intestine is expelled at the anus as feces.
In this article, we will study in detail the definition of the gastrointestinal tract, its anatomy, digestive mechanism, functions of the GI tract, infection, and disorders that occur in the GI tract.
Table of Content
- Gastrointestinal Tract Definition
- What is the Gastrointestinal Tract?
- Gastrointestinal Tract Anatomy
- Digestive Process
- Gastrointestinal Tract Functions
- Gastrointestinal Tract Infection
- Gastrointestinal Tract Diseases