How does the large intestine maintain homeostasis?

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anonymous · Answer

The large intestine helps in maintaining pH levels. "Both acidic and basic pHs are required at various points in digestion to maintain balance during the process. Saliva in the mouth, the starting point of digestion, is only mildly acidic for the purpose of initially breaking down the food without damaging the teeth or delicate throat tissue. The stomach, on the other hand, needs to be highly acidic to jump-start the breakdown process as well as act as a defense for the body against any harmful bacteria or other intruders." Read more: How Does the Digestive System Maintain Homeostasis? | eHow.com http://www.ehow.com/how-does_4565570_digestive-system-maintain-homeostasis.html#ixzz2Kji9xu4n