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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.

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this information does not replace the advice of a doctor. healthwise, incorporated, 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 and privacy policy. to learn more about healthwise, visit healthwise.org. © 1995-2022 healthwise, incorporated. healthwise, healthwise for every health decision, and the healthwise logo are trademarks of healthwise, incorporated.

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