Our digestive system is one of the most important systems of our body. This is because most of the essential nutrients that our body needs, we get from the food we eat.
Medically reviewed by Mia Dacumos, MD · Nephrology · Makati Medical Center
Our digestive system is one of the most important systems of our body. This is because most of the essential nutrients that our body needs, we get from the food we eat.
Digestive health is the measure of how healthy a person’s digestive system is. Having good digestive health means that all of the organs related to digestion, such as the mouth, esophagus, stomach, small and large intestine, as well as the liver, kidneys, pancreas, gallbladder, etc. all have to be in good shape.
If our digestive system is not functioning as it should, then it can impact how we break down and absorb nutrients from food. This is why malnutrition and sudden weight loss are usually signs that there is something wrong with a person’s digestive well-being.
It’s also common for people with digestive problems to feel pain around their abdomen, or suffer from conditions such as diarrhea or constipation.
Here are some common ailments that affect a person’s digestive health:
While some of these conditions usually go away over time or don’t need any specialized treatment, it would be best to see a doctor if it becomes a recurring issue. It’s possible for some of these ailments to cause more serious complications.
Here are some symptoms to watch out for when it comes to ailments that affect the digestive system:
If you experience any of the symptoms above, it would be best to consult your doctor.
Ailments of the digestive system can be caused by a number of things, such as the following:
The food we eat plays a big role in how healthy our digestive system and our body is. Eating processed foods, fatty foods, as well as foods high in sugar and sodium can cause digestive problems.
Having too little fiber in the diet can also cause problems such as constipation or even appendicitis.
It’s also possible for foods to become triggers for other conditions such as Crohn’s disease or celiac disease. So it is important to watch what you eat, and pay attention to how different foods affect your body.
A person’s lifestyle can also affect their digestive health. Being sedentary, drinking too much alcohol, and smoking are just some of the things that can affect the digestive system. Having a healthy lifestyle translates directly to a healthier digestive system.
For certain ailments, such as inflammatory bowel disease, having a family history can increase a person’s risk. It would be best to find out what ailments are common in your family, and take steps to lower your risk for those problems as soon as you can.
Lastly, a person’s mental health can also affect the digestive system. In particular, irritable bowel syndrome can sometimes be triggered by depression, anxiety, and stress. So it is important to not neglect your mental health and to seek medical intervention.
Here are some things that you can do to care for your digestive system:
By following these tips, you can ensure that your digestive health remains in top condition.
Disclaimer
Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
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