SANTÉ DIGESTIVE

THEdigestive systemis responsible for converting food into nutrients and eliminating waste. It begins in the mouth, where food is chewed and mixed with saliva, which contains enzymes that begin the breakdown of carbohydrates. Digestion continues in the stomach, where food is mixed with acids and enzymes to digest proteins. Chyme (a semi-liquid mixture of food) then passes into theintestinesmall intestine, where the majority of nutrients are absorbed into the bloodstream. The remaining undigested food moves to the colon, where water is reabsorbed, and waste is formed into stool to be eliminated through the anus.
Importance for overall health:
- Essential nutrients: The digestive system allows the absorption of vitamins, minerals, proteins, fats and carbohydrates necessary for the proper functioning of the body.
- Immune system: About 70% of theimmune systemis located in the gastrointestinal tract. Good digestive health helps maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria, which contributes to an effective immune response.
- Regulation of metabolism: Efficient digestion plays a key role in metabolism and regulation of body weight.
- Elimination of waste: It helps eliminate toxins and waste, preventing their accumulation in the body.

Here are the main organs of the digestive system and their functions:

- Mouth: Teeth chew food into small pieces, and saliva moistens it and contains enzymes (such as amylase) that begin to break down carbohydrates.
- Esophagus: This muscular tube transports food from the mouth to the stomach by contractions called peristalsis.
- Stomach: It mixes food with acidic gastric juices and enzymes (such as pepsin) to digest proteins. It acts as a reservoir, allowing for gradual digestion.
- Small intestine: It is divided into three parts (duodenum, jejunum, ileum) and is the main site of absorption of nutrients. Pancreatic juices and bile (produced by the liver) are added here to help digest fats, carbohydrates and proteins.
- Liver: It produces bile, which is stored in the gallbladder and released into the small intestine to aid in the digestion of fats. It also plays a crucial role in metabolism and detoxification.
- Gallbladder: It stores and concentrates bile, releasing it into the small intestine in response to fat consumption.
- Pancreas: It producesdigestive enzymeswhich help break down carbohydrates, proteins and fats, as well as hormones like insulin, which regulates blood sugar.
- Colon (large intestine): It absorbs water and electrolytes from food residues, forming stools. It also houses beneficial bacterial flora that helps in the fermentation of dietary fiber.
- Rectum and anus: The rectum stores stool until it is passed, while the anus controls the elimination of waste from the body.

Here are some indicators of proper functioning of thedigestive system:

- Regularity of bowel movements: Having regular bowel movements, usually between once a day and three times a week, without excessive straining or pain.
- Stool consistency: Stools should be well formed, neither too hard nor too liquid. The Bristol stool scale can help assess stool consistency.
- Absence of abdominal pain: A healthy digestive system should not cause frequent abdominal pain,excessive bloating or gas.
- Energy level: Efficient digestion contributes to good energy levels, as the body is able to absorb the necessary nutrients.
- Absence of acid reflux: Few or no symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux, such as frequent heartburn or regurgitation.
- Skin health: Good digestive health can be reflected by ahealthy skin, as toxins and waste are properly eliminated.
- General condition: A feeling of general well-being, without excessive fatigue or digestive discomfort, can also indicate that the digestive system is functioning well.