|
At its simplest, the digestive system is a tube running from
mouth to anus. Its chief goal is to break down huge macromolecules
(proteins, fats and starch), which cannot be absorbed intact,
into smaller molecules (amino acids, fatty acids and glucose)
that can be absorbed across the wall of the tube, and into
the circulatory system for dissemination throughout the body.
Regions of the digestive system can be divided into two main
parts: the alimentary tract and accessory organs. The alimentary
tract of the digestive system is composed of the mouth, pharynx,
esophagus, stomach, small and large intestines, rectum and
anus. Associated with the alimentary tract are the following
accessory organs: salivary glands, liver, gallbladder, and
pancreas.
To learn more about the regions of the digestive system,
use the hyperlinks listed below to branch into a specific
topic.
1. Alimentary Tract of the Digestive System
|
