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Digestion is a complex process by which food is broken down into its component nutrients, which are then absorbed into the body. This process begins in the mouth with mechanical digestion, where teeth chew food into smaller pieces, and chemical digestion, where enzymes in saliva start to break down carbohydrates.

From the mouth, food travels down the esophagus to the stomach. Here, the stomach lining secretes acid and enzymes that further break down food. This semi-liquid mixture, called chyme, then moves into the small intestine. The small intestine is where the majority of nutrient absorption occurs. Bile from the liver and digestive enzymes from the pancreas are released into the small intestine to aid in the breakdown of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates.

After passing through the small intestine, the remaining undigested material moves into the large intestine. The primary function of the large intestine is to absorb water and electrolytes from the remaining waste. Bacteria in the large intestine also play a role in breaking down some of the remaining substances and synthesizing certain vitamins.

Finally, the waste material is stored in the rectum before being eliminated from the body as feces through the anus. This entire journey, from ingestion to elimination, is essential for providing the body with the energy and nutrients it needs to function.