What are the functions of the stomach, intestines, and liver?

• A. They regulate blood sugar levels.
• B. They are involved in digestion, nutrient absorption, and metabolism.
• C. They filter waste from the blood.
• D. They produce hormones.

Answer: (B)

These organs work as a team to turn food into usable energy and building blocks. The stomach uses muscle movements and gastric acid to begin breaking down food. The small and large intestines finish digestion, absorb most nutrients and water, and prepare waste for elimination. The liver processes nutrients absorbed from the gut, stores energy as glycogen, makes important proteins, and produces bile to help digest fats. Put together, their main jobs are digestion, nutrient absorption, and metabolism. While they do other things too, this combination best describes their collective functions.