Digestive System
Our extensive collection of illustrations of the digestive system includes male, female and paediatric anatomy. We have illustrations that detail the anatomy and function of all parts of the digestive system, and also detailed illustrations of diseases and problems such as diverticulitis, Crohn’s disease and acid reflux.
Please see our entire selection of
Digestive System Images
Anatomy
The digestive system comprises a collection of organs that work together to process and break down food in order to provide nutrients that the body needs for energy, growth and cell repair. The digestive system includes the pharynx, oesophagus, stomach, intestines, liver, pancreas and gallbladder. The upper and lower part is called the gastrointestinal tract (or GI tract) and includes the mouth, oesophagus, stomach, large and small intestine and anus.
Function
The function of the digestive system is to break down food into the form of carbohydrates, protein, fats and vitamins. Simple carbohydrates are found in sugars naturally found in foods such as fruits, vegetables and milk products, and also from sugar added during the processing of food. Complex carbohydrates are starches and fibre found in whole-grain products such as bread or cereal, starchy vegetables and legumes. Protein is found in meat, eggs and beans and is broken down by the body into amino acids. Fats are found in oils, butter and snack foods.
Diseases
GERD, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (in the UK it is also known as GORD), is a condition where acid from the stomach moves up into the oesophagus, causing heartburn, acid reflux, bloating and pain or difficulty swallowing. In many cases, the symptoms can be treated by lifestyle changes such as eating smaller, more frequent meals, avoiding alcohol in the hours before going to sleep, or losing weight. Over the counter medicines such as antacids can also help control symptoms. However, if the condition continues over a long period there is a risk of stomach acid damaging the oesophagus.
Diverticulitis and diverticular disease are conditions that affect the large 
intestine. Diverticular disease is a condition where small bulges or pickets develop in the lining of the intestine. If the pockets become infected or inflamed then it can cause lower abdominal pain and the feeling of being bloated.
Please see our entire selection of
Digestive System Images