Digestive health
Digestive Health
Digestive health (/daɪˈdʒɛstɪv hɛlθ/) refers to the proper functioning and well-being of the digestive system, a group of organs that includes the mouth, esophagus, stomach, pancreas, liver, gallbladder, small intestine, large intestine, and rectum. The term originates from the Latin words digestio (digestion) and salus (health).
Function
The primary function of the digestive system is to break down food into nutrients, which the body uses for energy, growth, and cell repair. This process involves digestion, absorption, and excretion.
Disorders
There are many disorders that can affect digestive health, including gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), peptic ulcer disease, gallstones, celiac disease, Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, diverticulitis, malabsorption, short bowel syndrome, and cancer of the digestive system.
Prevention and Treatment
Maintaining digestive health involves a balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding risk factors like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption. Treatment for digestive disorders varies depending on the specific condition, but may include medication, lifestyle changes, or surgery.
Related Terms
- Gastroenterology: The branch of medicine focused on the digestive system and its disorders.
- Probiotics: Live bacteria and yeasts that are good for your health, especially your digestive system.
- Prebiotics: Substances that induce the growth or activity of beneficial microorganisms, such as bacteria and fungi, in the digestive system.
- Dietary fiber: Nutrient in the diet that aids in digestion by adding bulk to the stool, which helps it move through the digestive system.
This WikiMD.org article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.