The movement of food through the food pipe is called ______ movement.

Peristalsis is the wave-like muscular contraction that moves food through the esophagus and other parts of the digestive system. When we swallow food, it enters the food pipe, or esophagus, which connects the mouth to the stomach. The inner walls of the esophagus contain smooth muscles that contract and relax rhythmically in a coordinated manner. These sequential contractions create a wave-like motion known as peristalsis, which pushes the food bolus downward toward the stomach.

Peristaltic movement is an involuntary action, meaning it occurs automatically without conscious effort. It is controlled by the autonomic nervous system. This mechanism ensures that food continues its journey through the digestive tract even if a person is lying down or upside down, proving that gravity alone is not responsible for moving food through the esophagus.

The same peristaltic action occurs throughout the digestive system, including the stomach, small intestine, and large intestine. In the stomach, peristalsis helps mix the food with gastric juices to form chyme, aiding chemical digestion. In the intestines, peristaltic waves help move digested food forward and assist in the absorption of nutrients and water.

Disruption in peristaltic movement can lead to digestive issues such as acid reflux, constipation, or intestinal obstruction. Therefore, healthy peristaltic activity is vital for smooth digestion and nutrient absorption.

In summary, peristaltic movement is a key physiological process that ensures food moves efficiently through the digestive tract. It involves coordinated muscular contractions that play a fundamental role in digestion and overall gastrointestinal health.