What is the normal or average length of time it takes to complete the digestive process?
1 Answer
Oct 1, 2016
Depending upon individual digestive factors, the entire process of digestion on an average takes between 24 to 72 hours,
Explanation:
It takes about 6 to 8 hours for the food to pass through the stomach and small intestine.
When food enters the colon it is possible that some food particles still need to be digested. Beneficial bacteria present in the colon break down the remaining undigested matter. Water is also reabsorbed from the stools.
Digestion through the large intestine ( colon ) takes longer than the stomach and small intestine - roughly 24 hours.
From the colon the digestive matter is moved to the rectum where it remains till a bowel movement.
Type of diet can speed up or slow down the digestive system.
