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Here are the major stages of

the digestive system:

Chewing: Chewing is the first

stage of the digestion. When

we chew our food, it breaks

down into smaller pieces.

Smaller pieces are easier to

digest and swallow. There is

saliva in our mouth which

mixes with the food and

helps in digestion.

Swallowing: After the food is

chewed, it is swallowed in

the stomach. Our tongue

helps to push food into the

back of our throat. Then       Digestive system
there are special throat

muscles that force the food down into a long tube that leads to our stomach. This tube

is called esophagus. Muscles of the food pipe push food down into the stomach.

Stomach: The next stage happens in the stomach. Food remains in the stomach for

about four hours. While the food stays there, more enzymes go to work on it, breaking

down things like proteins that our bodies can use.

Small Intestine: The first part of the small intestine works with juices from the liver

and pancreas to continue to break down our food. The second part is where the food

gets absorbed from the intestine and moves into the blood.

Large Intestine: The last stage happens in the large intestine. Any food that the body

doesn't need or can't use is sent to the large intestine and later leaves the body as waste.

Healthy Eating Habits

We should eat healthy food as it keeps our body fit and fine. Healthy food habits keep
us away from diseases. Let’s read about some healthy eating habits.
 Always wash your hands before and after eating meals.
 Chew the food slowly and properly.

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