digestive system library

The digestive system is in charge of absorbing and transporting nutrients your body needs in order to thrive -- and it gets rid of all the waste the body doesn't need. Discover how saliva breaks down the food you eat and more.

Featured Article: Does gum really stay in you for seven years?

Whether you chew to freshen your breath or blow a big bubble, you probably shouldn't swallow gum. But does it really stay in your body for seven years if you do? See more »

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Does gum really stay in you for seven years?

Whether you chew to freshen your breath or blow a big bubble, you probably shouldn't swallow gum. But does it really stay in your body for seven years if you do?

How does your stomach keep from digesting itself?

Ever wondered how your stomach acid knows the difference between your stomach and the food inside it?

How the Digestive System Works

What happens to your lunch after you eat it? As you read this, your digestive system is hard at work, taking it on a wild ride through your body.

Why shouldn't I go in swimming right after I eat?

You've heard the saying for ages, but exactly why is it so dangerous to go swimming right after you eat?

Digestive system

This animation traces the path of food along the digestive system and explains how each major organ contributes to the absorption of nutrients and the removal of waste.

Swallowing

The tongue teeth, epiglottis and esophagus are all part of swallowing, and there are three distinct stages to swallowing. This animation shows you how it works.

The Digestive System

The digestive system is a complex combination of mechanical and chemical processes. This animation explains how the different parts work together to digest food.