How Food Travels in the Digestive System

Front

Mouth

Back

Chewing breaks down food particles and mixes them with saliva. Saliva contains enzymes that break down carbohydrates.

Front

Esophagus

Back

Muscular contractions move food down to the stomach.

Front

Stomach

Back

The stomach lining releases digestive juices and acid that break down food. The stomach also kills harmful bacteria.

Front

Small intestine

Back

The small intestine absorbs digested nutrients through its walls. Juices from the liver and pancreas help break down food particles.

Front

Large intestine

Back

The large intestine removes water from undigested food and forms solid waste.