Your autonomic nervous system (ANS) is the part of your central nervous system (CNS) that controls unconscious activities like breathing and digestion. This system is always working, whether or not ...

Various cells in the stomach secrete digestive enzymes and hydrochloric acid. These substances break down food so the body can absorb nutrients. The stomach is a muscular organ in the upper abdomen ...

Chemical digestion occurs when the body uses enzymes to break down certain molecules, such as carbohydrates. This process allows the bloodstream to absorb smaller molecules to transport around the ...

The vagus nerve functions as a communication channel that links the brain to the gut system. The brain receives chemical signals from the gut which report its current state, including feelings of ...

Measuring around 15 feet, your intestines break down and absorb essential nutrients from food and drinks. These nutrients are then transported into your bloodstream. Share on Pinterest Your intestines ...

Your gastrointestinal system contains about a hundred trillion bacteria. That may sound scary, but it’s actually beneficial because these bacteria help with digestion, immunity and other important ...