Body Parts and Organs Involved
Primary Digestive Organs
Mouth – Initial breakdown through saliva and enzymes;
Esophagus – Transport tube to stomach;
Stomach – Acid production and protein breakdown;
Small Intestine – Primary absorption site (duodenum, jejunum, ileum);
Large Intestine – Water absorption and waste formation;
Liver – Detoxification, bile production, nutrient processing;
Gallbladder – Bile storage and concentration;
Pancreas – Digestive enzyme production.
Supporting Structures
Gut microbiome – Trillions of beneficial bacteria;
Enteric nervous system – “Second brain” of the gut;
Gut-associated lymphoid tissue (GALT) – 70% of immune system.
Key Functions and Processes
Digestion Process
Mechanical and chemical breakdown of food;
Enzyme production and activation;
Nutrient absorption across intestinal wall;
Waste elimination.
Barrier Function
Selective permeability of intestinal lining;
Prevention of toxin absorption;
Immune surveillance and response.
Microbiome Functions
Vitamin synthesis (B vitamins, vitamin K);
Short-chain fatty acid production;
Immune system modulation;
Neurotransmitter production.
Interconnections with Other Systems
Immune System – GALT provides primary immune defense.
Nervous System – Gut–brain axis via vagus nerve and neurotransmitters.
Endocrine System – Gut hormones influence metabolism and mood.
Circulatory System – Portal circulation connects gut to liver.
Detoxification – Liver processes absorbed nutrients and toxins.
Common Symptoms
Bloating and abdominal pain;
Irregular bowel movements;
Food sensitivities and intolerances;
Reflux and heartburn;
Nausea and digestive discomfort;
Skin issues (eczema, acne);
Mood changes and brain fog;
Frequent infections (e.g., H. pylori).
Investigation Methods
See what Testing can be performed
Comprehensive stool analysis;
SIBO breath testing;
Organic acids testing;
Nutrigenomics;
Inflammatory markers.
Conditions That Can Be Managed with Nutrition
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS);
Small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO);
Dysbiosis and candida overgrowth;
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD);
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) – Crohn’s, ulcerative colitis (support alongside medical care);
Coeliac disease (nutritional management post-diagnosis);
Non-coeliac gluten sensitivity;
Post-antibiotic gut recovery.
H. pylori eradication therapy.
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