What are the two main types of digestive movements in the human body?

The two main types of digestive movements in the human body are peristalsis and segmentation. Peristalsis refers to the wave-like muscle contractions that move food through the digestive tract. This process is crucial for pushing the contents along the esophagus, stomach, and intestines. Segmentation, on the other hand, involves the contraction of circular muscles in the intestines, which breaks the food into smaller pieces and mixes it with digestive fluids. This mixing action aids in the absorption of nutrients.

Understanding these movements is essential for grasping how the digestive system functions effectively. Peristalsis ensures that food is propelled forward, making it possible for the body to extract nutrients efficiently, while segmentation maximizes nutrient absorption by ensuring that food remains in contact with the intestinal walls longer.