How does digestion work in the human body?

Digestion starts in the mouth, where chewing and saliva begin breaking down food. The food travels down the esophagus to the stomach, where gastric acids and enzymes further digest it. From there, it enters the small intestine, where bile from the liver and enzymes from the pancreas help absorb nutrients into the bloodstream. Remaining waste passes into the large intestine, where water is absorbed before excretion through the rectum. The process ensures the body gains essential nutrients for energy, growth, and repair. A balanced diet supports efficient digestion.