Which body system has digestion and absorption as its general functions?

The digestive system is specifically designed to carry out the processes of digestion and absorption. Digestion involves the mechanical and chemical breakdown of food into smaller components that can be easily absorbed by the body. This system includes various organs such as the mouth, stomach, intestines, and associated glands like the pancreas and liver, all of which work together to transform the food we eat into nutrients that provide energy and support bodily functions.

Absorption occurs primarily in the small intestine, where digested nutrients enter the bloodstream and are transported to cells throughout the body. This process is essential for maintaining health and supplying the necessary energy and materials for growth, repair, and various metabolic processes.

In contrast, the other body systems mentioned—lymphatic, integumentary, and endocrine—serve different functions. The lymphatic system plays a role in immune response and fluid balance, the integumentary system (skin, hair, and nails) acts as a protective barrier, and the endocrine system regulates bodily functions through hormones. None of these systems are dedicated to digestion and absorption like the digestive system is.