to relax the smooth muscle caudal to the bolus. This allows the food bolus to effectively be pushed forward along the digestive tract. This peristaltic reflex is also known as the myenteric reflex.

Esophagus

After food is chewed into a bolus, it is swallowed and moved through the esophagus. Smooth muscles contract behind the bolus to prevent it from being squeezed back into the mouth. Then rhythmic, unidirectional waves of contractions work to rapidly force

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