How Your Digestive System Works (+ How to Maintain It)



How the digestive system works - Dr. Axe

The Western diet and lifestyle are linked to a growing number of digestive diseases. The health of your digestive system has a lot to do with lifestyle, since it’s in part determined by the food you eat, the amount of exercise you get and your stress level throughout the day.


By better understanding the digestive system process and learning some helpful tips, you can not only boost the health of your digestive system, but you can naturally help yourself to overcome many digestive issues.


What Is the Digestive System?


What are the four types of digestive systems? The four basic types of digestive systems in animals are monogastric, avian, ruminant, and pseudo-ruminant.



The liver filters and detoxifies blood, while the gallbladder stores and recycles bile for digestion. The pancreas secretes digestive enzymes and regulates blood sugar levels. The small intestine absorbs nutrients, and the colon completes the digestive process. In Eastern medicine, the spleen plays a crucial role in nutrient assimilation, energy production, and fluid metabolism. Pylori bacteria, and stomach cancer
  • Small intestine problems, like celiac disease, Crohn’s disease and malabsorption

  • Appendicitis

  • Colon problems, such as diverticulitis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), ulcerative colitis, colorectal cancer and colon polyps

  • Anal and rectal problems, like anal abscess and anal fistula

  • Pancreatitis

  • Liver problems, including hepatitis, cirrhosis and liver cancer

  • Gallbladder problems, like gallstones and cholecystitis

  • Gallstones, cholecystitis and cholangitis

  • Rectal problems, such as anal fissure, hemorrhoids, proctitis and rectal prolapse

  • Esophagus problems, such as stricture (narrowing) and achalasia and esophagitis

  • Stomach problems, including gastritis, gastric ulcers usually caused by H. Pylori bacteria, and stomach cancer

  • Small intestine problems, like celiac disease, Crohn’s disease and malabsorption

  • Appendicitis

  • Colon problems, such as diverticulitis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), ulcerative colitis, colorectal cancer and colon polyps

  • Anal and rectal problems, like anal abscess and anal fistula

  • Pancreatitis

  • Liver problems, including hepatitis, cirrhosis and liver cancer

  • Gallbladder problems, like gallstones and cholecystitis
  • Helicobacter pylori infection has been linked to an increased risk of cancer. Other digestive system disorders, such as liver problems (hepatitis B, hepatitis C, cirrhosis), pancreatitis, pancreatic pseudocyst, intestinal issues (polyps, cancer, celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, IBS), and GERD, peptic ulcer disease, and hiatal hernia can also impact overall health.

    To improve digestion, it is essential to consume foods that support gut health. These include bone broth, raw cultured dairy, fermented vegetables, sprouted seeds, omega-3 fatty acids, herbs, spices, coconut products, and nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory foods.

    On the other hand, a poor diet consisting of allergens, inflammatory foods, GMOs, refined oils, processed foods, and synthetic additives can lead to digestive issues. Toxins from alcohol, drugs, antibiotics, pesticides, and other sources can also disrupt gut health.

    Incorporating healthy recipes and essential oils like ginger, peppermint, and lemon can aid digestion. It is important to consult a healthcare provider before making any dietary changes, especially during pregnancy, nursing, or if currently on medication.

    Maintaining a healthy digestive system is crucial for overall well-being. Symptoms of poor digestion should not be ignored, and lifestyle changes such as a balanced diet, stress management, hydration, and regular exercise can support optimal gut function. Additionally, probiotics and digestive enzymes may be beneficial supplements for digestive health. above sentence: Please rewrite the following sentence: