The exocrine part of the pancreas is segmented into various parts and lobules, held together by connective tissue. This section houses the pancreatic ducts, lymph vessels, blood vessels, and nerves. The lobules are characterized by numerous branching tubules or alveoli, also known as acini. Each alveolus is structured with pancreatic glands that have a pyramidal configuration surrounding a central cavity. These alveoli are interconnected by ductules, which subsequently merge to form larger ducts, culminating in the formation of the primary pancreatic ducts. As these ducts traverse the pancreas, they expand and merge with the bile duct. The entry of acidic chyme into the duodenum prompts the release of several intestinal hormones, each with specific roles: The small intestine is a narrow, coiled tube where the majority of nutrient absorption occurs. It is lined with villi, small finger-like projections that increase the surface area for absorption. The nutrients from the digested food are absorbed through the walls of the small intestine into the bloodstream. The alimentary canal is the long tube through which the food that we eat is passed. It begins at the mouth (buccal or oral cavity), passes through the pharynx, oesophagus or food pipe, stomach, small intestines, large intestines, rectum and finally ends at the anus. The food particles gradually get digested as they travel through various compartments of the alimentary canal. Sigmoid colon - contracts to increase pressure inside the colon, causing the stool to move into the rectum

It normally takes about 36 hours for stool to get through the colon. The stool itself is mostly food debris and bacteria. These bacteria perform several useful functions, such as synthesizing various vitamins, processing waste products and food particles, and protecting against harmful bacteria. When the descending colon becomes full of stool, it empties its contents into the rectum to begin the process of elimination.

Assimilation: The absorbed nutrients are utilized for energy production or assimilated into the body’s structures. Excess glucose may be stored as glycogen, and amino acids may be used for protein synthesis or converted into waste products like urea. Let’s say you decide to eat more than just an apple. Instead you have yogurt, a turkey sandwich, and some carrots, too. That is a lot of food for your body to store in one sitting. Since your stomach is designed to accommodate full meals, you don’t need to worry about bursting at the seams. Your tummy will take each bite in stride, and process the full meal over the next several hours. Water Absorption: The large intestine or colon primarily absorbs water and some minerals from the remaining undigested food matter. It’s crucial to note that bile, while essential, does not contain digestive enzymes. Its primary function is to emulsify fats, making the liver a non-digestive organ in a strict sense.

A protective layer composed of coarse connective tissue, elastic fibers, fat, lymph vessels, blood vessels, and nerve cells. Esophagus: This is a short tube that transports food from the mouth to the stomach. It is relatively narrow and serves mainly as a conduit.

Eating is by far the most enjoyable part of the digestive process. Your mouth and tongue encounter foods and beverages of all varieties, textures, and tastes. And together, they begin digestion by breaking up the food you eat into small, easy-to-swallow pieces.