What happens to the soft palate during swallowing?

During swallowing, the soft palate elevates upward, which is a critical action in the process. This elevation serves to close off the nasal passages from the oral cavity. By doing so, it prevents food and liquid from entering the nasal cavity, ensuring that the bolus travels down the esophagus instead. This mechanism is essential for the safe and effective movement of food during swallowing. The soft palate's elevation also helps to ensure that the airflow is directed appropriately through the oral cavity, contributing to the swallowing process's overall efficiency and safety.