peristalsis
/ˌpɛrɪˈstælsɪs/
noun
- The wave-like muscle contractions that move food through the digestive system.
- Eating fiber helps keep peristalsis regular and prevents constipation.
- After you swallow, peristalsis pushes the food down your esophagus into your stomach.
- Doctors can listen to your abdomen to check if peristalsis is working properly.