Similar term(s): gastrointestinal tract, digestive system, GI tract, alimentary canal.
Definition:
The digestive tract is the system of organs which takes in food, digests it to
extract energy and nutrients and expels remaining waste. It includes the mouth,
salivary glands, esophagus, stomach, pancreas, liver, gallbladder, small
intestine, large intestine, and rectum.
After food is chewed and swallowed, the digestive juices released by the
pancreas and stomach break it down into substances that are readily absorbed
through the small intestine. Material that is not taken up by the body collects
in the large intestine, forming faecal matter that is then excreted through the
anus.
