When the intestines are sick, the entire body suffers. How to take care of the intestines?

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The intestines absorb nutrients and vitamins and are part of the digestive tract. The intestines are made up of the small and large intestines that run together from the end of the stomach to the anus. What is the gut and what is its function, and related health problems and treatments?

What are the intestines?

Intestines (Latin. intestine) is a fragment of the digestive tract, more precisely a tortuous muscle tube extending from the stomach to the anus. Their main purpose is to digest food. However, the intestines are not only used for digestion: they also produce various substances that carry messages to other parts of the body and play an important role in fighting germs and regulating the body’s water management. There are a particularly large number of nerve cells in the intestinal wall.

For some people, the gut reflects how they are feeling: for example, they may experience abdominal pain, diarrhea, or constipation when they are stressed or upset about something.

Also read: Five body parts that a person does not really need

What parts are the intestines made of?

Structure of the small intestine

The small intestine is made up of three segments that make up the passage from the stomach (the opening between the stomach and small intestine is called the pylorus) to the large intestine.

1. The duodenum (lat. duodenum): this short section (20 cm to 25 cm C-shaped) is the part of the small intestine that takes partially digested food from the stomach through the pylorus and continues the digestive process. The duodenum also uses bile from the gallbladder, liver, and pancreas to help digest food. The duodenum contains Brunner’s glands which produce mucus-rich alkaline discharge containing bicarbonate. These secretions, in combination with pancreatic bicarbonate, neutralize the stomach acid contained in the stomach.
2. Jejunum (lat. jejunum intestine): the middle part of the small intestine that connects the duodenum with the ileum. It is about 2,5 m long and contains round folds and intestinal villi increasing its surface area. The digestive products (sugars, amino acids and fatty acids) are absorbed into the bloodstream here. The pendulum muscle of the duodenum marks the division between the duodenum and the jejunum.
3. The ileum (lat. ileum): this last section is the longest part of the small intestine (about 3 m long). It mainly absorbs vitamin B12 and bile acids, as well as any other nutrients. The ileum connects to the cecum of the large intestine by an ileocecal valve.

By the time the food reaches the small intestine, it has already been broken up and crushed by the stomach. Every day the small intestine receives six to twelve liters of this fluid. The small intestine carries out most of the digestive process, absorbing almost all of the nutrients we get from food into the bloodstream. The walls of the small intestine produce digestive juices, or enzymes, which work together with enzymes from the liver and pancreas to do this.

See also: What does bile in the stomach mean?

The structure of the large intestine

The large intestine is about 1,5 meters long. The large intestine is much wider than the small intestine and runs a much simpler route through the abdomen. The colon’s job is to absorb water and salt from material that has not been digested as food and to get rid of any waste products left over. By the time the food mixed with digestive juices reaches the colon, most of the digestive and absorption processes have already taken place.

What is left is mainly fiber (plant matter that takes a long time to digest), dead cells shed from the gut lining, salt, bile pigments (which give this digested matter its color), and water. In the large intestine, bacteria feed on this mixture. These helpful bacteria produce valuable vitamins that are absorbed into the blood and also help digest fiber. The large intestine consists of the following parts:

Cecum, caecum (lat. cecum, blind man): this first part of the large intestine looks like a pouch about 5 centimeters long. It takes the digested fluid from the ileum and transfers it to the colon. The cecum has a thin protuberance called the appendix, which is not involved in digestion and is considered part of the lymphoid tissue associated with the gut. The function of the appendix is ​​uncertain, but some sources believe it plays a role in storing a sample of the gut microflora and may help re-populate the colon with microflora if depleted during an immune response. The appendix has also been shown to have a high concentration of lymph cells.

Colon (lat. colon): This is the main part of the large intestine. The colon is also the primary site for water reabsorption and soaks up salts as needed. The colon has four parts:

1. ascending colon (lat. ascending colon): using muscle contractions, this part of the colon pushes any undigested debris out of the cecum to just below the lower right end of the liver. Across all ages and sexes, colorectal cancer is the most common (41%) here;
2. transverse colon (lat. transverse colon): food travels through this other part of the colon, through the anterior wall of the abdominal cavity, moving from left to right just below the abdomen. The transverse colon is surrounded by the peritoneum and therefore mobile (as opposed to the part of the colon immediately in front of and behind it);
3. descending colon (lat. descending colon): the third of the colon pushes its contents out of the spleen area, down to the lower left abdomen. One of the functions of the descending colon in the digestive system is to store feces for emptying into the rectum. The arteries are supplied through the left colic artery. The intestinal flora in this region is very dense;
4. sigmoid colon (lat. colon sigmoideum): the terminal length of the S-shaped colon curves inward between the ganglia of the small intestine and then empties into the rectum. The walls of the sigmoid colon are muscular and contract to increase pressure inside the colon, causing the stool to move into the rectum.

Rectum (lat. transverse colon): the last part of the digestive tract measures approx. 12 cm. The leftover debris accumulates there, widening the anus until the man finally has to go to the bathroom. During this time, the body is ready to have a bowel movement.

See also: All about the colon

Functions of the small intestine

Digestion in the small intestine

Most of the chemical digestion takes place in the small intestine. Many digestive enzymes acting in the small intestine are secreted by the pancreas and liver and enter the small intestine through the pancreatic duct (Latin pancreatic duct). Pancreatic enzymes and bile from the gallbladder enter the small intestine in response to cholecystokinin, which is produced in response to the presence of nutrients. Secretin, another hormone produced in the small intestine, additionally acts on the pancreas where it promotes the release of bicarbonate into the duodenum to neutralize the potentially harmful acid that comes from the stomach.

The three main classes of nutrients that are digestible are:

1. protein – are broken down into small peptides and amino acids before absorption. Chemical breakdown begins in the stomach and continues in the small intestine. Proteolytic enzymes, including trypsin and chymotrypsin, are secreted by the pancreas and cleave proteins into smaller peptides;
2. lipids – (fats) are broken down into fatty acids and glycerol. Pancreatic lipase breaks down triglycerides into free fatty acids and monoglycerides. Bile salts attach to triglycerides to help emulsify them, which facilitates the access of pancreatic lipase;
3. carbohydrates – some of them are broken down into simple sugars or monosaccharides (e.g. glucose). Pancreatic amylase breaks down some carbohydrates (especially starch) into oligosaccharides. Other carbohydrates pass undigested into the large intestine and are further processed by the gut bacteria. The enzymes in the brush hem will do the rest. The most important enzymes of the brush border are dextrinase and glucoamylase, which additionally break down oligosaccharides. Other brush line enzymes include maltase, sucrase, and lactase. Some adult humans lack lactase, and lactose (disaccharide), like most polysaccharides, is not digested in the small intestine.

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Also read: Elevated lipase and pancreatitis

Absorption in the small intestine

The digested food is now able to enter the blood vessels in the intestinal wall. The small intestine is where most of the nutrients from the food you eat are absorbed. Structurally, the mucosa is covered with circular folds, from which microscopic, finger-like fragments of tissue called villi protrude. Individual epithelial cells also have finger-like projections known as microvilli. The functions of the circular folds, villi and microvilli are to increase the surface area available for the absorption of nutrients and to reduce the loss of these nutrients by the gut fauna.

Each villi has a network of capillaries and tiny lymphatic vessels called the milk vessels near its surface. The villi epithelial cells transport nutrients from the intestinal lumen to these capillaries (amino acids and carbohydrates) and the milk vessels (lipids). Absorbed substances are transported through blood vessels to various organs of the body, where they are used to build complex substances such as proteins that our body needs. Material that remains undigested and unabsorbed passes into the large intestine.

Absorption of most of the nutrients takes place in the jejunum, with the following exceptions.

1. Iron is absorbed in the duodenum.
2. Folic acid (vitamin B9) is absorbed in the duodenum and jejunum.
3. Vitamin B12 and bile salts are absorbed in the terminal ileum.
4. Water is absorbed by osmosis and lipids by passive diffusion in the small intestine.
5. Sodium bicarbonate is absorbed through active transport and the co-transport of glucose and amino acids
6. Fructose is absorbed by assisted diffusion.

Small intestine and supporting the immune system

The small intestine supports the body’s immune system. The presence of the gut flora appears to positively influence the host’s immune system. Peyer’s patches, located in the ileum of the small intestine, are an important part of the local gastrointestinal immune system. They are part of the lymphatic system and provide a site for antigens of potentially harmful bacteria or other microorganisms in the digestive tract to be collected and then presented to the immune system.

How can the small intestine digest so much?

Some may find it hard to believe that such a narrow organ could do so much work. However, the appearance can be deceiving. The absorbent area of ​​the small intestine is actually about 250 square meters (the size of a tennis court). How is it possible? The small intestine has three features that allow such a large absorbent surface to be packed into a relatively small space.

1. Folds of the mucous membranes (gr. mucous membrane): the inner surface of the small intestine is not flat but folded. This not only increases the surface area but helps regulate the flow of digested food through the intestines.
2. Intestinal villi (pour. intestinal villi): the folds form numerous tiny projections that protrude into the open space inside the small intestine and are covered with cells that help absorb nutrients from food passing through them.
3. Mikrokosmki (pour. microvillus): The villi cells are filled with tiny hair-like structures called microvilli. This helps to increase the surface area of ​​each individual cell, meaning each cell can absorb more nutrients.

Although the small intestine is narrower than the large intestine, it is actually the longest section of the digestive tract, measuring on average around seven meters, or three and a half body lengths.

The functions of the large intestine

The colon absorbs water and any remaining absorbable nutrients from the food before sending the indigestible matter into the rectum. The colon absorbs vitamins produced by colon bacteria, such as thiamin, riboflavin, and vitamin K (which is especially important as a daily intake of vitamin K is usually not sufficient to maintain adequate blood clotting). He also compacts the feces, and stores the feces in the rectum until it is removed through the anus during defecation. Various nutrients are also recycled in the colon (e.g. fermentation of carbohydrates).

The appendix contains a small amount of lymphoid tissue associated with the mucosa, which gives the appendix an undetermined role in immunity. However, it is known that the appendix is ​​important in utero because it contains endocrine cells that release biogenic amines and peptide hormones important for homeostasis during early growth and development.

By the time the food reaches the large intestine, the body will absorb most of the nutrients and 90% of the water. At this point, certain electrolytes remain, such as sodium, magnesium, and chloride, as well as indigestible parts of the food consumed (e.g., a large proportion of the ingested amylose, starch that has so far been protected against digestion, and dietary fiber, which is largely indigestible soluble or insoluble carbohydrate). As the chyme passes through the colon, most of the remaining water is removed while the chyme mixes with mucus and bacteria (known as the gut flora) and becomes feces.

The ascending colon receives fecal material in the form of a fluid. The muscles in the colon then move the watery waste material forward and slowly absorb all excess water, causing the stool to gradually solidify as it travels to the descending colon. The bacteria break down some of the fiber for their own food and produce acetate, propionic acid, and butyric acid as waste products, which in turn are used by the cell lining of the colon for nutrition.

The large intestine does not produce digestive enzymes, because chemical digestion ends in the small intestine before the food enters the large intestine. The pH in the colon ranges from 5,5 to 7 (slightly acidic to neutral).

Intestinal diseases

Various health problems can affect the gut, including:

Bowel disease – constipation

Constipation is where the digestive tract struggles to pass stools. This may be due to low fiber or fluid intake, hormonal imbalance, or a lack of mobility. Constipation can also be a side effect of medications. It is a more common problem in older people than in younger people.

Eating more fiber, drinking plenty of fluids, and exercising regularly can relieve constipation. You can also try over-the-counter fiber supplements and laxatives.

Intestinal diseases – gastrointestinal infections

Infections of the gastrointestinal tract are also called stomach flu. It results from infection and can cause cramps, watery diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and fever. Symptoms can last from a few days to 10 days.

The key is to stay hydrated and replace electrolytes. Over-the-counter medications such as loperamide can help to treat certain symptoms, such as diarrhea.

Intestinal diseases – irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) is characterized by abdominal pain, flatulence and changes in bowel function. It affects about 3,8 percent. people all over the world. The exact cause is unknown, but researchers note that specific bacteria are associated with it.

Appropriate treatment depends on the individual’s symptoms, but the results of a 2019 review published in Frontiers in Microbiology suggest that a holistic approach, including personalized probiotic therapy and dietary modifications, may be best.

Intestinal diseases – celiac disease

Over time, in a person with celiac disease, the gluten in wheat damages the small intestine, so it no longer absorbs nutrients as effectively.

Symptoms range from diarrhea and abdominal pain to irritability and depression. Adopting a gluten-free diet is a key part of your treatment.

Bowel diseases – Crohn’s disease

Crohn’s disease causes chronic inflammation in the digestive tract. Most often it concerns the end of the small intestine and the connection with the large intestine. Because the symptoms of this inflammation are also due to many other health problems, your doctor may refer you to a specialist called a gastroenterologist for further testing and diagnosis.

The frequency and severity of symptoms may vary from person to person. Treatment consists of taking medications, including biological therapies.

Intestinal diseases – ulcerative colitis

Ulcerative colitis causes inflammation, ulcers, and scarring of the colon. Symptoms include cramping abdominal pain and an urgent need to have a bowel movement.

Your doctor may prescribe medications such as aminosalicylates, corticosteroids, or immunosuppressants to treat relapse of symptoms. If your symptoms are severe and don’t respond well to medications, your doctor may recommend surgery.

Bowel disease – colon cancer

Depending on where the abnormal cells first form, your doctor may refer to colon cancer as cancer of the bowel, colon, or rectum. Overall, colorectal cancer is the second most common cancer in women and third in men in the world.

A variety of tests can detect colorectal cancer, including colonoscopy, computed tomography, and biopsy. Most early forms of cancer cause no symptoms, so screening and early intervention are crucial. Symptoms of colon cancer include: diarrhea or constipation; blood in the stool which makes it look black; rectal bleeding; a feeling of fullness, pain or flatulence in the abdomen; fatigue and unexplained weight loss

The most common treatment is surgery, although the desirability of this procedure depends on the size and location of the tumor and the stage of the tumor.

Other conditions and diseases of the intestine

1. Bowel obstruction: A section of the small or large intestine may become blocked or twisted, or may simply stop working properly. Symptoms include abdominal distension, pain, constipation and vomiting.
2. Diverticulitis: Small weak areas in the muscles of the colon wall allow the lining of the colon to protrude, creating tiny pocket-like protrusions called diverticula. Diverticula don’t usually cause problems, but they can bleed or become inflamed.
3. Diverticulitis: When the diverticula become inflamed or infected, it is called diverticulitis. Common symptoms include abdominal pain and constipation.
4. Diarrhea: Stools that are frequent, loose, or watery are commonly called diarrhea. Most diarrhea is caused by self-limited, mild infections in the colon or small intestine.
5. Salmonellosis: Salmonella bacteria can contaminate food and infect the intestines. Salmonella causes diarrhea and stomach cramps that usually go away without treatment.
6. Shigellosis: Shigella bacteria can contaminate food and infect the intestines. Symptoms include fever, stomach cramps, and diarrhea which may be bloody.
7. Traveler’s diarrhea: A wide variety of bacteria commonly contaminate water or food in developing countries. The symptoms are loose stools, sometimes with nausea and a fever.
8. Colon polyps: Polyps are growths inside an organ. Most of them are not serious, although some can develop into colon cancer. Symptoms include blood or mucus in the stool, altered bowel habits with diarrhea or constipation, or lower abdominal pain.
9. Rectal prolapse: Part or all of the rectal wall may dislocate, sometimes emerging from the anus, when straining to defecate.
10. Intussusception: a condition that occurs mainly in children where part of the small intestine is telescoped into another part of the intestine. If left untreated, it can be life-threatening.

Intestines – research

To make a correct diagnosis, the doctor will interview the patient and carefully check their medical history, noting the symptoms the patient was experiencing. A physical examination is also performed to more accurately assess the problem.

Some patients require a more detailed diagnostic evaluation. This may include laboratory tests, imaging studies, and / or endoscopic procedures. These tests may include any or a combination of:

Intestinal imaging studies

Examination of the passage of the large intestine. This test shows how well food passes through the colon. The patient swallows capsules that contain small markers visible on an X-ray. During the examination, the patient is on a high-fiber diet. The movement of the markers through the colon is monitored by X-rays of the abdominal cavity taken several times 3 to 7 days after the capsule has been swallowed.

Computed tomography (CT). It is an imaging study that uses X-rays and a computer to take detailed pictures of the body. Computed tomography shows details of bones, muscles, fat and organs. CT scans are more detailed than general x-rays.

Defecography. Defecography is an X-ray of the anus that assesses the completeness of stool excretion, identifies rectal abnormalities, and assesses contraction and relaxation of the rectal muscles. During the examination, the patient’s rectum is filled with a soft paste that has the same consistency as the stool. Then the patient sits down on the toilet placed in the X-ray machine and compresses and relaxes the anus to expel the solution. The radiologist examines x-rays to determine if there have been any problems with the rectum while removing the paste from the rectum.

Rectal enema. A contrast colon infusion is a test that examines the rectum, large intestine, and the lower part of the small intestine. The contrast agent is administered into the rectum as an enema. An abdominal x-ray shows strictures, obstructions, and other problems.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MRI is a diagnostic test that uses a combination of large magnets, radio frequencies, and a computer to produce detailed images of organs and structures in the body. The patient is lying on a bed that slides into a cylindrical MRI machine. The machine takes a series of photos of the inside of the body using a magnetic field and radio waves. The computer corrects the images taken. The examination is painless and does not involve any radiation exposure. Because the MRI machine is like a tunnel, some people become claustrophobic or unable to stay still during the examination. They may be given a sedative to help them relax. There must be no metal objects in the MRI room, so people with pacemakers or metal clamps or rods inside the body cannot do this test. All jewelry should be removed prior to testing.

MR cholangiography (MRCP). This study uses magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to look at the bile ducts. The machine uses radio waves and magnets to scan tissues and internal organs.

Ultrasounds. Ultrasound is a diagnostic imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves and a computer to create images of blood vessels, tissues, and organs. Ultrasound is used to observe the functioning of internal organs and to assess the flow of blood through various vessels. The gel is applied to the area of ​​the body being tested, such as the abdomen, and the device is placed on the skin. The device sends sound waves to the body, which are reflected from the organs and returned to the ultrasound machine, creating an image on the monitor.

Swallowing barium sulfide to create contrast. A diagnostic test that examines the organs of the upper digestive tract: the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum (first section of the small intestine). The barium is swallowed and then x-rays are taken to evaluate the digestive organs.

Laboratory tests on the intestines

Fecal occult blood test. A fecal occult blood test checks the stool for hidden (latent) blood. It involves placing a very small amount of stool on a special card. The stool is then tested in the doctor’s office or sent to a laboratory.

Stool culture. Stool culture checks for abnormal bacteria in the digestive tract that can cause diarrhea and other problems. A small stool sample is collected and sent to the lab. Within 2 or 3 days, the test will show if abnormal bacteria are present.

Endoscopic procedures for the intestines

Colonoscopy. A colonoscopy is a procedure that allows the doctor to see the entire length of the large intestine (colon). It can often help identify abnormal growth, inflammation, ulceration, and bleeding. It involves the insertion of a colonoscope, a long, flexible, lighted tube, through the rectum into the colon. The colonoscope allows the doctor to see the lining of the colon, remove tissue for further examination, and possibly treat some problems found.

Endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). ERCP is a procedure that can diagnose and treat problems in the liver, gallbladder, bile ducts, and pancreas. The procedure combines x-rays and the use of an endoscope. It’s a long, flexible, lighted tube. The endoscope is passed through the patient’s mouth and throat, then through the esophagus, stomach and duodenum (the first segment of the small intestine). The doctor can examine the inside of these organs and find any abnormalities. A tube is then passed through and a dye is injected, which will allow internal organs to appear on the x-ray.

Panendoscopy (also called gastroscopy or gastrofiberoscopy). A procedure that allows the doctor to examine the inside of the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum using an endoscope. It goes to the mouth and throat, and then to the esophagus, stomach and duodenum. The endoscope allows the doctor to see the inside of this area of ​​the body as well as inserting tools through the speculum to collect a tissue sample for biopsy (if necessary).

Sigmoidoscopy. Sigmoidoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that allows your doctor to examine the inside of part of your colon and help identify the causes of diarrhea, abdominal pain, constipation, abnormal growths, and bleeding. A short, flexible, lighted tube called a sigmoidoscope is inserted into the bowel through the rectum. The device blows air into the intestine to inflate it and make it easier to see inside.

Capsule endoscopy. Capsule endoscopy helps examine the small intestine because traditional procedures such as gastroscopy or colonoscopy cannot reach this part of the intestine. This procedure is helpful in identifying the causes of bleeding, detecting polyps, inflammatory bowel disease, ulcers, and tumors in the small intestine. The sensor is placed on the patient’s abdomen and the capsule is swallowed. It passes naturally through the digestive tract as the video images are transferred to the data logger. The data logger is attached to the patient’s waist with a strap for 8 hours. Images of the small intestine are downloaded to the computer from the data logger. The images are viewed by the doctor on the computer screen. Usually, the capsule passes through the colon and is eliminated in the stool within 24 hours.

Other procedures

Anorectal manometry. This test helps to determine the strength of the muscles in the rectum and anus. These muscles usually tighten to maintain a bowel movement, and relax as the bowel movements pass. Anorectal manometry is helpful, inter alia, in the assessment of anorectal malformations and Hirschsprung’s disease. A small tube is placed in the rectum to measure the pressure exerted by the sphincter muscles that surround the canal.

Intestines – treatment

Treatment for bowel disease will vary depending on what’s causing them. However, some treatment may include lifestyle changes such as nutrition and diet, stress reduction, or working with a mental health professional. Bowel treatment may include several forms, depending on a given disease entity.

1. Anti-diarrheal agents: Various medications can slow diarrhea by reducing discomfort. Reducing diarrhea does not slow recovery for most diarrheal diseases.
2. Stool softeners: Over-the-counter and prescription medications can soften your stool and reduce constipation.
3. Laxatives: Medications can relieve constipation in a number of ways, including by stimulating the muscles in your gut and providing more water.
4. Enema: A medical procedure whereby fluid is poured through the rectum into the large intestine to remove fecal masses.
5. Colonoscopy: By using instruments passed through an endoscope, your doctor can treat some conditions of your colon. Bleeding, polyps, or cancer can be treated with a colonoscopy.
6. Polypectomy: During a colonoscopy, removal of a colon polyp is called a polypectomy.
7. Colon Surgery: Part or all of the colon (colectomy) can be removed by open surgery or laparoscopy. This can be done for severe bleeding, cancer, or ulcerative colitis.

Also read: Scientists have learned the secret of longevity? The answer may be in the gut

Prophylaxis of intestinal diseases

Not all gut health problems are preventable, but there are several ways you can take care of your gut.

Lowering your stress levels

Chronic high levels of stress put a strain on the entire body, including the intestines. Some ways to reduce stress may include meditation, walking, massage, spending time with friends or family, spreading essential oils, reducing caffeine consumption, laughing, yoga, or having a pet.

Getting enough sleep and taking care of sleep quality

Not getting enough or quality sleep can have a serious impact on your gut health, which in turn can contribute to more sleep problems. Try to sleep at least 7-8 hours straight during the night. If we are having trouble sleeping, it might be worthwhile to consult a doctor.

Slow eating

Chewing your food thoroughly and eating more meals can help you fully digest and absorb nutrients. This can help reduce digestive discomfort and keep your gut healthy.

Adequate hydration level

Drinking plenty of water has been shown to have a beneficial effect on the intestinal mucosa as well as the balance of good bacteria in the gut. Staying hydrated is a simple way to support a healthy gut.

The use of probiotics and prebiotics

Adding prebiotics or probiotics to your diet can be a great way to improve your gut health. Prebiotics provide “food” designed to support the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut, while probiotics are live, good bacteria. People with an overgrowth of bacteria, such as SIBO, should not take probiotics. Not all probiotic supplements are of high quality or will actually benefit you. It’s best to check with your healthcare provider when choosing a probiotic or prebiotic supplement to ensure you get the best health benefits.

Research on food intolerances

If you have symptoms such as cramps, bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, rashes, nausea, fatigue, and acid reflux, you may be suffering from a food intolerance. You can try eliminating common trigger foods to see if your symptoms improve. If you are able to identify the food or foods that are contributing to your symptoms, you may notice a positive change in your digestive health by changing your eating habits.

Healthy diet

Reducing the amount of processed, high-sugar, and high-fat foods you eat can contribute to better gut health. In addition, eating plenty of plant foods and lean protein can positively affect the intestines. A high-fiber diet has been shown to contribute significantly to the maintenance of a healthy gut microbiome.

See also: Fruits and vegetables will help with specific health conditions. Check what

A diet for a healthy gut

Diet and gut health are closely related. Avoiding processed foods, foods high in fat, and foods high in refined sugars is extremely important to maintaining a healthy microbiome as these foods destroy good bacteria and encourage the growth of harmful bacteria. There are also many foods that actively promote the growth of beneficial bacteria, contributing to your overall health.

1. High-fiber foods – High-fiber foods such as legumes, beans, peas, oats, bananas, blueberries, asparagus and leeks have shown positive effects on gut health in numerous studies.
2. Garlic and onion – Garlic and onions may have some anti-cancer and immune-boosting properties, based on various studies that are closely related to some basic functions of the gut. Some of these benefits are anecdotal, although some research has been done.
3. Fermented products – Fermented foods such as kimchi, sauerkraut, yogurt, tempeh, miso, and kefir are excellent sources of probiotics in your diet. While the quality of these foods can vary, their benefits for the gut microbiome are well-researched.
4. Foods rich in collagen – Collagen-rich foods like bone broth and salmon can be beneficial to your overall health, especially gut health. Many of these benefits are anecdotal conclusions and further research could be done. You can also try to increase the production of collagen in your body through food. Try adding different foods, such as mushrooms, good dairy, or some meats.

Also read: Intestinal cleansing – diet, exercise, enema. Drugs and supplements for cleansing