The scientific term for the journey of food through the digestive system is peristalsis. Peristalsis involves a series of wave-like muscle contractions that move food through the digestive tract, beginning in the esophagus and continuing through the stomach and intestines. This involuntary process is crucial for digestion, mixing food with enzymes, and facilitating nutrient absorption. Peristalsis ensures that food is efficiently processed, allowing the body to extract essential nutrients and eliminate waste.