begin quotes from Google AI and Internet:
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Peristaltic action is the
wave-like, involuntary contraction and relaxation of smooth muscles in
hollow organs, primarily the digestive tract, to propel contents like
food, fluids, or waste forward, preventing backflow. This
coordinated movement, controlled by nerves, squeezes material along the
esophagus, stomach, intestines, and even through the ureters and
lymphatic system, ensuring efficient digestion, nutrient absorption, and
waste elimination.
How it works
- Contraction & Relaxation: Muscles behind the food mass contract (narrowing the tube), while muscles ahead of it relax (widening the tube).
- Wave-like Motion: This creates a wave that pushes the food (bolus or chyme) forward.
- Coordination: The enteric nervous system (part of the peripheral nervous system) controls this reflex, signaling muscles to contract behind and relax in front of the material.
Where it occurs
- Digestive Tract: Moves food from the mouth to the anus, essential for digestion and absorption.
- Ureters: Propels urine from the kidneys to the bladder.
- Lymphatic System: Helps circulate lymph, as there's no central pump.
- Reproductive Tract: Propels sperm in the vas deferens during ejaculation.
Why it's important
- Movement: Moves food through the GI tract and urine through the urinary system.
- Mixing: Mixes chyme in the intestines for better nutrient absorption.
- Waste Elimination: Moves waste towards the rectum for excretion.
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