What role does the muscular system play in the digestive system?

• A. Regulates hormone secretion
• B. Moves food through the digestive tract
• C. Filters blood components
• D. Secretes digestive enzymes

Answer: (B)

The muscular system plays a critical role in the digestive process by facilitating the movement of food through the digestive tract. This movement occurs through a series of coordinated muscle contractions known as peristalsis. These contractions help push food from the esophagus into the stomach and then through the intestines, allowing for both the mechanical breakdown of food and the mixing of food with digestive juices.

Additionally, the muscular system contributes to the rhythmic contractions that help with the segmentation in the intestines, which further aids in the absorption of nutrients. The action of the smooth muscles in the walls of the digestive organs is essential for ensuring that food is effectively processed and moved along the digestive pathway.

The other options involve functions that are not directly related to the muscular system's primary role in the digestive system. Hormone secretion is primarily managed by the endocrine system, blood filtration is a function of the renal system, and digestive enzyme secretion is carried out by glands within the digestive system, primarily the pancreas and salivary glands.