Gastrocolic reflex
Gastrocolic Reflex
The Gastrocolic Reflex (pronunciation: gas-troh-KOH-lik REE-flex) is a physiological phenomenon that involves the stimulation of the colon in response to food entering the stomach.
Etymology
The term "Gastrocolic Reflex" is derived from the Greek words "gaster" (stomach) and "kolon" (large intestine), reflecting the reflex's role in connecting the functions of these two organs.
Function
The Gastrocolic Reflex is a normal bodily function that helps to regulate the digestive process. When food enters the stomach, this reflex triggers the colon to empty its contents to make room for the incoming waste material. This reflex is often more active after breakfast, which explains why many people feel the need to have a bowel movement in the morning.
Related Terms
- Peristalsis: The wave-like muscle contractions that move food through the digestive tract.
- Defecation: The final act of digestion, by which organisms eliminate waste material from the digestive tract via the anus.
- Digestive System: The system of organs responsible for getting food into and out of the body and for making use of food to keep the body healthy.
- Gastrointestinal Tract: The structure through which food passes in the process of being digested.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Gastrocolic reflex
- Wikipedia's article - Gastrocolic reflex
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