The Human Digestive System

What is digestion?

Digestion is the breaking down of food into small parts the body can use. The KICD Science and Technology curriculum teaches Grade 5 learners how food travels through the body.

The path of food

1. Mouth: teeth chew food and saliva softens it.
2. Oesophagus: a tube that pushes food down by squeezing.
3. Stomach: churns food with juices into a thick liquid.
4. Small intestine: digestion finishes and nutrients enter the blood.
5. Large intestine: water is absorbed.
6. Anus: undigested waste (faeces) leaves the body.

Helper organs

• Liver makes bile to break down fats.
• Pancreas makes juices that help digestion.

Kinds of teeth

Incisors cut, canines tear and molars grind food.

Keeping the system healthy

• Wash hands before eating.
• Eat a balanced diet with ugali, vegetables, beans and fruit.
• Drink clean, boiled or treated water.
• Chew food well.
• Avoid eating too fast.
• Visit a health centre if you have a stomach ache that does not go away.

Common problems

Diarrhoea and typhoid often come from dirty water or food. Constipation can come from too little fibre and water.

Try it

• Draw and label the path of food from mouth to anus.
• Chew a piece of bread for one minute and describe the taste change.
• List three foods rich in fibre in your community.