The gastrointestinal tract consists of various organs that allow us to intake all the nutrients our body needs. In addition to sufficient fats, carbohydrates, and proteins, various vitamins and minerals are also essential. What we eat and drink significantly impacts both our physical and mental health.

When you consume food, digestion begins, involving various organs: esophagus, stomach, pancreas, gallbladder, small intestine, large intestine, and rectum. The small intestine consists of the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum. The large intestine includes the cecum, colon, and rectum.

The microbiome is another important component of the gastrointestinal tract. The microbiome includes the bacteria, yeasts, and fungi in the intestines. It aids in digesting food, protecting the intestinal wall, supporting the immune system, and stimulating intestinal movement. The total weight of all the bacteria in the microbiome is around 1.5 kilograms. The microbiome has a significant influence on your life and how you feel. You have some control over its composition. Healthy nutrition, particularly with sufficient fiber intake, is a key factor. Fiber is predominantly found in vegetables, fruits, legumes and whole grain products. Additionally, getting enough sleep, exercise, and relaxation contributes to a healthy microbiome.

Would you like more insight into your eating habits and gastrointestinal tract? This is analyzed in the Vitamins & Minerals, Vital Organs, Total Health and PME examinations.

Sources

• Maag level darm stichting: Wat is je spijsvertering? Available at https://www.mlds.nl/spijsvertering/wat-is-je-spijsvertering/
• Voedingscentrum: Microbioom. Available at https://www.voedingscentrum.nl/encyclopedie/microbioom.aspx
• Maag level darm stichting: Alles over je microbioom. Available at https://www.mlds.nl/spijsvertering/microbioom/