Gastro-intestinal Tract

THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM
The main purpose of the digestive system is to break down carbohydrates, fats and proteins into modecules small enough for us to absorb them. This provides cells with necessary energy for life and health. The digestive tract course begins at the mouth, ending with the rectum. In betwen is the esophagus, stomach small and large intestines. If we are what we eat, then what we are is only as good as our digestive system. When it goes awry, it affect our whole body. Whether it be mild nausea, or chronic disorders. If those conditions persist they can undermine our total health and even threaten our lives. Digestion begins in the mouth when food is chewed and starch is broken down by ptyalin, an enzyme secreted in saliva. Food moves to the stomach wherethe remaining process is the removal of water and the final elimination from the body.

DISEASES OF UPPER GI TRACT
Gastroesophagel Reflux Disease (GERD)
People with GERD and Ulcers should avoid caffeine-containing beverages like coffee, tea, and Cola drinks. Avoid smoking, and meat extracts such as boulion cubes, concentrated canned broths and canned gravies. Avoid acid containng foods like pickles, tomato and orange. Drink mildly-alcoholic beverages like wine and beer and avoid stong alcoholic drinks. Avoid chocolate. Test your tolerance for foods know to cause heartburn or indigestion such as sauerkraut, hot dogs, onions, beans and citrus juices and spicy foods. Do not eat large meals or have a large meal close to bed time. Instead eat 5-6 small meals a day. Relax and take plenty of time eating, do not lie down for several hours after eating and be sure to get adequate nutrition.

Gastroenteritis
This is diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and abdomeninal cramping brought on by bacteria, amoebas, parasites, toxins and allergens in food. Treatment includes bed rest, fluids, bismuth containing products and nausea drugs like Tigan.

Chronic Gastritis
This it inflammation of the s tomach lining. It is sometimes caused
by eating irritating substances. Many experience vague pain, fever, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting. Treatment consist of eliminating the irritating foods, avoiding aspirin products.

Ulcers/Duodenal Ulcers
Ulcers occur in the lower esophagus, stomach, or any part of small intestines. Contributors are chronic use of aspirin products, alcohol, and cigerette smoking. Ulcers use heartburn, pain, nausea, indigestion. Most ulcers are bacterial infections and may be cured with antibiotics such as Biaxin, Tritec and Prevpac. Oversecretion of gastric acids and stress contribute. Acid reducing drugs such as Prevacid, Prilosec, Protonix, Tagamet and Zantac can help.

Gastric Cancer
Gastric Cancer is the more severe gastric disorder but is somewhat
less common. More prevelant in cultures that have diets with heavy consumption of pickled, smoked or salt preserved foods and those containing certain other elements. Less likely in persons with diets containing milk, fresh vegetables, fruits and rich in vitamin C.

DISEASES OF LARGE INTESTINES
Irritable Bowel Syndrome | Inflammatory Bowel Disease |
Diverticulosis | Intestinal Polyps | Colon Cancer

OTHER GI PROBLEMS
Hemorrhoids | Constipation | Pancreatitis

Generalized things to avoid if Digestive Problems

Avoid high fat foods, gravies and sauces

*Information contained herein is intented for general
information and is not intented to replace your
Doctor, Pharmacist or Health Care Provider.*

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