The digestive tract often is taken for granted, as evidenced by the obesity epidemic in the United States today. Many who don't overeat nonetheless fail to properly nourish their bodies with nutritious food, leaving the digestive tract to bear the brunt of their unwise decisions. Learning the signs of healthy digestion can help you take care of this important body system.
The Basics
The gastrointestinal tract is charged with the critical task of turning food into energy. It begins with the mouth and connects with the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, rectum and anus. The gallbladder, pancreas, liver, brain, bloodstream and nerves all play a role as well. For healthy digestion, each of these organs must be in proper working order. You also must do your part by supplying your body with nutritious food and drink.
A Healthy State
Signs of healthy digestion include one to two formed bowel movements each day. Many people have the urge to defecate each morning, but any time of day is considered normal. Other signs of healthy digestion include appropriate growth and maintenance of the body. Bright eyes, soft skin, healthy nails and good energy are all signs that nutrients are being properly absorbed through the digestive tract.
Deviations from Health
A multitude of problems can plague the digestive tract, making an additional sign of healthy digestion the absence of problems such as vomiting, abdominal pain, worms in the stools, lack of appetite, stomach cramping, bloody stools, excessive gas, excessive belching, heartburn, indigestion, nausea, constipation and diarrhea. People with healthy digestion never have bloody or wormy stools and rarely experience these other problems.
Digestive Health Maintenance
To maintain the signs of healthy digestion, eat nutrient-dense food and drink approximately eight cups of water or other healthy beverage each day. Consume 25 to 30 g of fiber on a daily basis. Avoid overeating, skipping meals, large quantities of alcohol, junk food and excessive amounts of saturated fat. Learn your digestive tract by recognizing which foods don't agree with you and limiting your intake of them. Typical triggers include spicy foods, greasy foods and milk products. Don't eat when rushed or stressed and relax for an hour after meals whenever possible. Seek medical guidance for gastrointestinal problems rather than chronically taking over-the-counter remedies.
References
- "Medical-Surgical Nursing;" Donna Ignatavicius, M.S., R.N. and Linda Workman, Ph.D., R.N.; 2002
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse; Your Digestive System and How It Works; April 2008
- WKU Ogden College Biology Department: Digestion
