What is the digestive system? | Year 4 Science PDF Download

Overview of the Digestive System

• The digestive system is crucial as it helps break down food for the body to process and utilize effectively.
• Without proper digestion, the food we consume would simply pass through our bodies without being utilized.
• The digestive system comprises a series of organs that work together to break down food so that essential nutrients can be absorbed into our bloodstream and transported to where they are needed.
• The digestive system includes several key organs that play specific roles in the digestion process.

What Happens to Food in the Digestive System?

After you chew and swallow your food, it embarks on a fascinating journey through your digestive system.
Let's take a closer look at the different stages:

The Mouth

• Food is broken down in your mouth through chewing and mixing with saliva.

The Stomach

• Once the food is swallowed, it travels down the esophagus into the stomach. In the stomach, the food is churned with stomach acid to eliminate any harmful germs present.

The Intestines

Your body comprises two types of intestines:

• Small Intestine: This is where food is further broken down, and essential nutrients are absorbed into the bloodstream.
• Large Intestine: Here, water is absorbed into the blood.

If any food cannot be absorbed, it is stored in the anus until it is eliminated during a bowel movement. Understanding this process is crucial for appreciating how our bodies extract nutrients and energy from the food we consume.