What term describes the esophagus' movement that pushes food toward the stomach?

What term describes the esophagus' movement that pushes food toward the stomach?

• A. Ingestion
• B. Regurgitation
• C. Digestion
• D. Peristalsis

Answer: (D)

Peristalsis is the wave-like muscle movement that pushes food toward the stomach. In the esophagus, the circular muscles behind the swallowed bolus contract to squeeze it forward, while the longitudinal muscles ahead shorten and widen the passage, helping the food move smoothly along the tract. This coordinated action is a reflexive part of swallowing, and it continues to propel the bolus even against gravity, with the lower esophageal sphincter relaxing to allow entry into the stomach. Ingestion refers to taking in food, digestion is the breakdown process, and regurgitation is backward flow; none describe this forward propulsion as accurately as peristalsis.

Peristalsis is the wave-like muscle movement that pushes food toward the stomach. In the esophagus, the circular muscles behind the swallowed bolus contract to squeeze it forward, while the longitudinal muscles ahead shorten and widen the passage, helping the food move smoothly along the tract. This coordinated action is a reflexive part of swallowing, and it continues to propel the bolus even against gravity, with the lower esophageal sphincter relaxing to allow entry into the stomach. Ingestion refers to taking in food, digestion is the breakdown process, and regurgitation is backward flow; none describe this forward propulsion as accurately as peristalsis.