The digestive process begins with a bite of food, traveling through the esophagus via peristalsis to the stomach, where powerful acids and enzymes break it down. Nutrients are absorbed in the small intestine, aided by villi, while waste proceeds to the large intestine, which absorbs water. Stool odor results from bacteria digesting leftovers. The rectum signals and stores stool until evacuation. Digestion spans 2–4 days, with food consistency and speed impacting outcomes like diarrhea or constipation. This complex system ensures nutrient absorption and waste removal, vital for overall health.