The functions of saliva are: 1. Lubrication of food: Assisted by chewing, saliva gets mixed with food in the mouth; the mucin which is a sticky substance helps to form bolus. Saliva prepares the food for swallowing forming a slippery coat over the bolus. 2. Solvent action: Taste is a chemical sense. Any substance, the taste of which has to [...]
Defecation is a reflex which results in the expulsion of feces and is normally under voluntary control in adult. In infants, it is purely a reflex action. The desire for defecation is felt when the finally formed feces enter the rectum. Continuous escape or dribbling of feces is prevented by presence of two sphincters. a. Internal anal sphincter: Formed of [...]
In this article we will discuss about the small and large intestine of digestive system. Small Intestine of Digestive System: Motility of Small Intestine: The movements of small intestine are brought about by the smooth muscle present in its wall. a. Wall of small intestine has an outer longitudinal and an inner circular layer. b. The movements are subjected to [...]