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Intestine (bowel)

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Intestine (bowel)

The intestine (bowel) is the long, winding, tube that is part of the digestive tract. The intestine helps to process food, extract and absorb nutrients and water, and eliminate waste.

The intestine is divided into two main parts: the small intestine and the large intestine.

  • The small intestine (small bowel) receives food from the lower end of the stomach and continues to digest it before passing it into the large intestine.
  • The large intestine (large bowel) absorbs chemicals (such as sodium and chloride), nutrients, and water from the digested food. It also prepares waste (stool) to be expelled from the body. The large intestine is also called the colon.

Current as of: October 19, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

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© 2024 Ignite Healthwise, LLC.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.