Gastrointestinal tract

The gastrointestinal tract, often called the GI tract or digestive system, is a long tube that runs from your mouth to your stomach and intestines, breaking down food into nutrients your body can absorb and use for energy. As food travels through this system, various organs like your stomach and small intestine release powerful chemicals and acids that work together to digest meals and extract valuable vitamins and minerals. Any leftover material that your body cannot use then continues through the large intestine and eventually exits your body as waste.