What is the primary function of the tongue in the digestive process?

The primary function of the tongue in the digestive process is aiding in food mixing and pushing food to the pharynx. This action is crucial for swallowing, as the tongue manipulates food within the mouth, mixing it with saliva and forming it into a cohesive bolus. Once the food is adequately prepared, the tongue propels it to the back of the mouth, initiating the swallowing reflex that sends the bolus down the pharynx and into the esophagus for further digestion.

While the tongue does contribute to other actions such as grasping and holding food in place, its most critical role in digestion is facilitating the transition of food from the mouth to the pharynx, ensuring that swallowing occurs efficiently and safely. This aspect of tongue function highlights its importance not only in the mechanical process of digestion but also in the coordinated actions necessary for swallowing and the overall digestive process.