A bolus is a rounded mass of food or liquid that has been chewed and mixed with saliva, ready to be swallowed. It plays a crucial role in the initial stages of digestion by facilitating the movement of food from the mouth to the esophagus.
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The formation of a bolus begins with mastication (chewing) in the mouth.
Saliva contains enzymes like amylase that start breaking down carbohydrates in the bolus.
The tongue helps in shaping and pushing the bolus towards the pharynx for swallowing.
Once swallowed, the bolus travels down the esophagus via peristaltic movements.
The term 'bolus' can also refer to a single dose of medication administered all at once.