The digestive tract measures about 9 meters
It consists of the mouth, teeth and tongue, then the pharynx, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, rectum and anus.
The food that we swallow after chewing, progresses in the digestive tract. Many chemical changes break down into small elements, nourishing the cells. This function is performed by the digestive tract, and the appendix glands, salivary glands, liver, gallbladder and pancreas.
DIGESTION : The food journey takes a complex and winding path. When we swallow food, we chew it and saliva mixes with chewing. It then turns into a small moist and soft mass, it is the food bolus.
It is transported to the stomach through muscle contractions of the pharynx and esophagus. Reaching the stomach, this food bolus is crushed. The resulting mixture, called chyme, goes to the small intestine whose mission is to sort this bowl :
- Nutrients are redirected to the bloodstream.
- Waste, is directed towards the large intestine, it is the last stage of digestion that precedes defecation.
- The complete cycle of digestion lasts about 24 hours and takes place according to the following route:
- 1.Esophagus: 7/8 seconds
- 2. Stomach :------4 hours approx.
- 3. Intestine: about 4 hours
- 4. Large intestine: 16 hours.
The shape and consistency of stool reveals our health
1. Small balls that are difficult to expel : You suffer from constipation, the body is not sufficiently hydrated or perhaps insoluble fibrous foods such as cereals or legumes have been eaten.
2. Lumpy puddings : The body lacks fluid. It is necessary to drink enough.
3. Cracked puddings, nothing to report.
4. Smooth puddings, nothing to report.
5 . Soft and smooth pieces, no worries, as long as you go to the toilet several times a day.
6. Liquid stools, without solid pieces, diarrhea causes your body to lose far too much water. Rehydration is essential. If the diarrhea lasts more than three days, then it is advisable to make a medical visit if it is accompanied by abdominal pain or fever.
7. Crumbly soft puddings, often found after a particularly fatty meal. The body must expel undigested oils and fats. This may explain loose stools. If this type of bowel movements is common, it is recommended to have the gallbladder and pancreas examined by a doctor.
What does the color of the stool tell us?
Normally, stool should be light brown to dark brown in color. Color changes can be related to diet. In some cases, however, they also indicate diseases.
Information about thedifferent colors of stool and their possible meaning.
1. Brown : Nothing to report, the brown color is due to brownish gastric juices.
2. Black or dark brown: A very dark color may be a sign of bleeding in the upper part of the gastrointestinal tract. Diet also plays a significant role in color changes. Beets, spinach, dark chocolate, cabbage or foods containing a lot of iron, can also give dark stools
3. Green : Green vegetables are often the cause. On the other hand, green stools can also be a sign of an intestinal infection.
4. Red : If you have eaten beets or lingonberries, there is no need to worry. This staining may be due to blood, you need to consult a doctor quickly.
5. Grey/clay tone : This indicates a lack of gastric juices. Perhaps there is a problem with the gallbladder. Consult your doctor.
6. Yellow : Certainly a large consumption of carrots. If there is more diarrhea, however, the yellow color can be a sign of an intestinal infection. If the stool is also viscous, fragrant and floats on the surface, this may be related to pancreatic problems. Consult a doctor.
The smell : If it gives off a pungent smell for several days, this may be an indication of inflammation of the pancreas and a medical consultation is necessary.