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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.
By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Arvydas D. Vanagunas, MD - Gastroenterology
Last Revised October 8, 2010

Last Revised: October 8, 2010

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine & Arvydas D. Vanagunas, MD - Gastroenterology

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