What is the relationship between the circulatory system and the digestive system?

There are six important functions that take place in the digestive system as food turns from nutrients into waste. The six include:

• Ingestion


• Secretion


• Mixing and movement


• Digestion


• Absorption


• Excretion

It is during absorption that the digestive system interacts with the circulatory system.

The small intestine is where much of digestion and absorption occurs. The small intestine contains the plicae circulars and villi. The plicae circular slows down the movement of food through the intestines for absorption. The villi are connected to blood vessels responsible for the absorption of food nutrients directly into the bloodstream.

The circulatory system refers to the channel followed by the blood as it moves throughout the body. The circulatory system is also connected to the digestive system through its function. It provides energy and nutrients necessary for the organs of the digestive system and other body organs to do their work. In addition to its role of absorbing and distributing the nutrients taken in during digestion, the circulatory system provides the energy for the digestive system itself to work.