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May 19, 2013
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Digestive System


Picture of the digestive system

The digestive system is responsible for breaking down food, absorbing nutrients from the food, and ridding the body of waste products from the food. The digestive system consists of the:

  • Upper digestive tract, which includes the mouth, esophagus, stomach, and small intestine.
  • Lower digestive tract, which includes the large intestine and the rectum.
  • Liver, pancreas, and gallbladder.
ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerKathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerArvydas D. Vanagunas, MD - Gastroenterology
Last RevisedOctober 8, 2010

eMedicineHealth Medical Reference from Healthwise

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