The gastrointestinal system

Abstract

The gastrointestinal system is sometimes known as the digestive system or the alimentary canal. It is around 10m in length, travelling the length of the body; it begins at the mouth and ends at the anus. The main function of the digestive system is to convert food from what is eaten into a form that can be used by the cells of the body to enable them to perform their functions. This article offers readers an overview of the structure and function of the gastrointestinal system. Understanding the gastrointestinal system can help to provide care to a range of people in a range of environments, across the life span in a safe and effective way. The article includes a glossary of terms, along with a short quiz that is designed to test understanding and to aid recall.