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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

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: October 08, 2010
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.
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