What is the primary function of the digestive system?

The primary function of the digestive system is to break down food and absorb nutrients. This process starts in the mouth and continues through various organs including the stomach and intestines. Enzymes and acids play crucial roles in this breakdown, transforming food into a form that the body can utilize for energy, growth, and repair. Once the food is broken down, the nutrients are absorbed through the walls of the intestines into the bloodstream, where they are transported to cells and tissues throughout the body.

The other functions mentioned, such as removing waste, pumping blood, and protecting against infections, relate to different systems in the body. While the digestive system does ultimately eliminate waste as a secondary function after nutrients are extracted, its primary role is focused on the breakdown and absorption of food. The circulatory system is responsible for pumping blood, and the immune system helps protect against infections. Understanding the distinct roles of these systems helps clarify how the body operates as a whole.