Facts About the Digestive System for Kids
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Our digestive system is an amazing part of our body that helps us break down food into nutrients and energy that we need to grow and thrive. Here are some interesting facts about the digestive system for kids.
1. The digestive system starts in the mouth
When we eat food, we use our teeth to break it down into tiny pieces. The mouth also contains saliva that helps moisten the food and begin the digestion process.
2. The stomach is like a blender
After the food travels down the esophagus, it enters the stomach. Here, the stomach muscles mix and mash the food, breaking it down even further.
3. The longest part of the digestive system is the small intestine
The small intestine is a long tube that is about 20 feet long in adults. This is where most of the nutrients in the food are absorbed into our body.
4. The large intestine absorbs water
The large intestine is the last part of the digestive system. It helps our body absorb water and minerals from undigested food.
5. Poop is made up of waste
After the large intestine has absorbed all the water it can, the undigested food enters the rectum and is then eliminated from the body as waste. This waste is what we commonly refer to as poop.
6. Food takes about 24-72 hours to complete the entire digestive process
The digestion process is not instant! Depending on the type of food and how much we eat, it can take up to 72 hours for food to go through the entire digestive system.
7. The liver and pancreas play important roles in digestion
The liver produces bile, which helps break down fats in the small intestine. The pancreas produces enzymes that help break down proteins, fats, and carbohydrates.
8. Our emotions can affect digestion
Have you ever felt butterflies in your stomach when you are nervous? That’s because our emotions can affect the digestive system. Stress and anxiety can slow down digestion, while excitement can speed it up.