Digestion is the mechanical and chemical breakdown of foods into forms that your body cells can absorb. The organs of the digestive system carry out digestion and can be divided into two categories—those of the alimentary canal and accessory organs. Organs of the alimentary canal extend from the mouth to the anus. They are the mouth, pharynx, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, and anal canal. The accessory organs include the teeth, tongue, salivary glands, liver, gallbladder, and pancreas (Figure 31-1).