Swallowing Reflex

Definition

The swallowing reflex is an involuntary action that allows us to swallow food and liquids safely into our stomachs without choking.

Analogy

Think of a slide at a water park. Once you're on the slide (like food or drink in your mouth), there's only one way down - straight into the pool (or in this case, your stomach). You don't have to think about it; it just happens!

Related terms

Sucking Reflex: An automatic response seen in newborns who will suck on objects placed in their mouth.

Gag Reflex: A protective mechanism designed to prevent choking by expelling any foreign object from entering our throat.

Peristalsis: The involuntary constriction and relaxation of muscles in the intestine or another canal, creating wave-like movements that push contents forward.