Digestion and Absorption

Digestion and absorption are the two chief functions of the digestive system. 

Digestion mostly occurs in the stomach where enzymes and hydrochloric acid break down the food into small molecular chains, which can be used by the body after it is absorbed into the bloodstream.  You are NOT what you eat...but what you assimilate and utilize! 

Problems in the stomach include:  heartburn or acid reflux, churning, belching, bloating, and ulcers. . 
Supplements for the stomach include:  enzymes and betaine HCL to better break down the food, slippery elm and aloe vera to sooth and rebuild the stomach lining, fennel or ginger to settle an upset stomach.

Absorption is the job of the small intestine, a 20 foot long tube, divided into 3 sections.  The first section, the duodenum, receives the juices from the gallbladder and pancreas which create just the right pH and enzymes to finish off the break down of the food which mostly occurred in the stomach. The main part of assimilation occurs in the jejunum, 12 feet long, covered with finger-like projections called villi.  These catch the food absorbing the nutrients, leaving water and waste behind to move on thru the third section, called the illeum. 

Problems in the small intestine include:  inflammation called enteritis, mal-absorption of minerals and vitamins commonly caused by allergies to foods, duodenal ulcers, or candida yeast imbalance.  Celiac disease is caused by an allergic reaction to gluten which damages the jejunum each time wheat is eaten.  It is important to remove the allergens from your diet. 

Supplements for the small intestine include:  enzymes, probiotics, essential fatty acids (EFA's), and herbs.  Enzymes, EFA's, and herbs like marshmallow, wild yam, and slippery elm help soothe inflammation.  Probiotics, such as acidolphilus help keep candida yeast in check.

Digestion and absorption are basic to the health of the body.  If they are not functioning properly, the body doesn't have the nutrients it needs to function, have energy, or repair and heal.   
Give the digestive system the attention it needs!

Lisa Purdy is not a physician and nothing herein is to be considered diagnosis or prescription.  All information is for educational purposes only.  You are responsible for your own health choices and this information is presented to assist you in making those choices.