How does food travel through the digestive system after it is ingested?

The journey of food through the digestive system is a well-coordinated process that begins in the mouth. When food is ingested, it is first chewed and mixed with saliva, which starts the breakdown of carbohydrates. After chewing, the food forms a bolus that is then swallowed and travels down the esophagus through a series of muscular contractions known as peristalsis.

Once the bolus reaches the stomach, it is mixed with gastric juices, including hydrochloric acid and digestive enzymes, which further break down the food. The stomach plays a crucial role in this mechanical and chemical digestion before the food moves into the small intestine.

In the small intestine, the majority of nutrient absorption occurs. There's a significant pathway through these structures, indicating that food does not directly skip to any part, like the small intestine, large intestine, or experience immediate absorption in the mouth. Each section of the digestive tract has a specific function in processing food, and following the correct order ensures that the food is properly digested and nutrients are maximized.