ingestión

Ingestión refers to the act or process of taking food, drink, or another substance into the body by swallowing or absorbing it. This is the first step in the digestive process, where external materials are introduced into the digestive tract. In humans and many animals, ingestion occurs through the mouth. The ingested material is then processed by the digestive system to extract nutrients and energy.

The definition of ingestion can extend beyond food and drink. It can also apply to the intake of medications, chemicals, or even foreign objects. The manner of ingestion varies widely across the biological kingdom. For instance, some organisms absorb nutrients directly from their environment, while others employ specialized structures for capturing and consuming prey. The safety and appropriateness of ingested substances are crucial for maintaining health. Ingesting harmful or toxic materials can lead to poisoning or other adverse health effects.

In a broader, non-biological context, ingestion can sometimes be used metaphorically to describe the absorption or acceptance of information or ideas. However, its primary and most common meaning relates to the biological process of consuming substances.