Intestinal Transit
What is digestion?
The primary function of the digestive system is to break down food. Food is first decomposed into simple building blocks so that nutrients can be absorbed into the blood through the intestinal mucosa. We need these nutrients to function optimally. It gives the body the energy it needs. During this digestion process, enzymes are produced that will speed up digestion.
Causes of digestive problems
It is estimated that about 69% of all Belgians suffer from some kind of intestinal ailment. However, it is not always easy to establish the exact cause of the symptoms. Several factors can be at the root of digestive problems. Think of tension, stress, travelling, eating too fast, insufficient chewing, too many snacks, eating at the computer … but also a lack of digestive enzymes.
Digestive enzymes are fundamental to the proper breakdown of our food into nutrients and are present throughout the digestive system:
- In saliva: mainly for the breakdown of starch.
- In the stomach: mainly for protein breakdown.
- In the pancreas: mainly for the breakdown of fats, proteins and carbohydrates.
- In the small intestine: mainly for the breakdown of carbohydrates and proteins.
At every stage of digestion, from the mouth to the intestines, enzymes help convert food into nutrients so they can be easily absorbed by the body.
How do they do this?
By breaking down complex molecules into simple molecules. These then enter the bloodstream and help the body function properly. The main digestive enzymes are proteases, lipases and amylase, which break down proteins, fats and starch (a complex carbohydrate), respectively.
Digestive enzymes come from various sources. Our body produces a certain amount of them, mainly secreted by the pancreas, and we also obtain them trough food. Enzymes play a key role in many chemical processes in the body. Without them, our cells, organs and muscles would’t function as well. However, enzymes are especially crucial in the digestive process.
Poor nutrition can lead to iron and vitamin deficiency, insufficient fiber, obesity and a lot of health problems… All this can also cause digestive problems. Some nutrients along with poor hydration can also cause or exacerbate digestive problems.
A sedentary lifestyle and not enough exercise make your metabolism slower. This is also associated with an increased risk of obesity, which in turn can lead to digestive disorders.
Stress can also cause disrupted intestinal function. It has a negative impact on the intestinal barrier and gut flora. This is because stress hormones (adrenaline and cortisol) activate the immune system, slowing down less essential processes such as digestion.
It is recommended to take your time while eating and to chew sufficiently. This is because saliva production during chewing is very important for digestion. The enzyme amylase, which is present in our saliva, already digests some of the carbohydrates.
A low gastric acid secretion can also be a cause of digestive problems, as stomach acid is essential for the digestion of food.
Finally, certain medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), are also associated with an increased risk of stomach ulcers. Medications for osteoarthritis and diabetes can cause nausea, diarrhea, bloating,… Even common medications can cause constipation.
Consequences of difficult digestion
Difficult digestion after a meal can manifest in a wide range of symptoms, from a heavy stomach, cramps, abdominal pain, nausea, to bloating, flatulence, constipation, and even diarrhea or acid reflux. It can feel as though the meal is literally “weighing” on us. These discomforts often result from poor digestion.
If our body produces little or no digestive enzymes, dietary supplements containing digestive enzymes may offer a possible solution. These preparations, which are taken just before or during a meal, contain natural enzymes that support digestion.
Constipation
Approximately 10 to 30% experience constipation at some point. It is more prevelant in women than in men.
Constipation is defined as having bowel movements less than 3 times per week. During constipation, digestion is slowed down. Stool is often dry and hard because it remains in the colon too long. Going to the toilet can be painful, and hemorrhoids or tearing at the anus may occur.
Constipation can result from low intake of fiber and fluids, lack of exercise or ignoring the urge to go to the toilet. Certain medications, such as iron and calcium preparations, antacids, and some antidepressants, can also cause constipation.
It is recommended to consume enough fiber-rich foods. Fiber acts like a sponge in the intestine; it absorbs water, helping to keep the stool soft and smooth. It is also important to drink enough water and stay physically active. Regular exercise stimulates the intestines and promotes better bowel transit, which can help restore normal bowel movements.
Diarrhea
When you experience frequent episodes of loose, watery stools throughout the day, it is referred to as diarrhea. Other symptoms such as abdominal pain, flatulence, bloating and nausea may also occur. Under normal conditions, the intestines absorb water from the stool. In the case of diarrhea, this mechanism is disrupted, resulting in too much water remaining in the stool.
While traveling, the risk of diarrhea increases due to poor hygiene, contaminated water and food, or exposure to viruses, bacteria and parasites.This is known as traveler’s diarrhea.
Other possible causes include medications (antibiotics), lactose intolerance, artificial sweeteners or digestive disorders. Stress can also trigger diarrhea. It overstimulates the intestines, causing food to pass through too quickly and preventing proper water absorption from the stool.