Your digestive system drives the process of moving food and liquid through your body. Understanding that process can help you keep it healthy and know when to get care.

Overview of the digestive system—how food moves through each part of the GI tract to help break down food for energy, growth, and cell repair.

Your digestive system breaks down food and liquid into their chemical components — carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals — so the body can absorb these nutrients, use them for energy, and build or repair cells. Many organs make up the digestive system.

Feb 20, 2025 · Discover five simple ways to improve your gut health, including increasing fiber intake, staying hydrated, managing stress, getting enough sleep, and staying physically active.

Mood and digestive system health (especially disorders like irritable bowel syndrome) are closely linked via the brain-gut connection. A Johns Hopkins digestive health expert discusses the ways your digestive system changes with age and shares the best ways to guard gut health and prevent digestive discomfort.

May 2, 2022 · A healthy digestive system can be maintained with a well-balanced diet, regular exercise, and good hydration. If you face frequent digestive health issues despite good care, consult a doctor at once to address any underlying problem or disease.

Your digestive system plays a key role in your overall health and well-being. You can make choices to help your body stay on tract.

Nov 1, 2017 · Fruits and vegetables contain fiber, minerals, enzymes, vitamins and prebiotics that keep your digestive system healthy. Eat whole-grain breads, pastas, and cereals.

Dec 5, 2023 · Discover the digestive system and understand its intricate processes. From mouth to the intestines, learn about each organ's role in digestion.

Jan 21, 2025 · Inside your stomach, food is mixed with enzymes and acid until it becomes a liquid, called chyme. The stomach is the main site for protein digestion and uses powerful enzymes, known as pepsins, as well as hydrochloric acid, to digest foods like meats, milk, and cheese.