Digestive System

The digestive tract, also known as the gastrointestinal (GI) tract is the system of organs that takes in food, digests it to extract the necessary nutrients and ingredients, and expels the remaining waste. The entire process is known as digestion. In a normal adult male, the GI tract is approximately 25 feet long. Food enters our body through our mouth where it is chewed up and digestive enzymes in our saliva begin to break it down. Once we swallow, the food moves through the esophagus into the stomach where it is further digested by acids and enzymes. The food then goes into the small and large intestines where nutrients are extracted and exported into the bloodstream for transfer to cells throughout the body. Eventually, after most nutritive quality has been taken out, the resulting waste is expelled through the rectum.

Acidity

Acidity is the condition of containing more than the normal amount of acid in the digestive system.

Constipation

Constipation occurs when bowel movements become difficult or less frequent. The normal length of time between bowel movements ranges widely from person to person. Some people have bowel movements three times a day; others, only one or two times a week. Constipation is a symptom, not a disease. Almost everyone experiences constipation at some point in their life, and a poor diet typically is the cause. Most constipation is temporary and not serious. Understanding its causes, prevention, and treatment will help most people find relief. More than 4 million Americans have frequent constipation, accounting for 2.5 million physician visits a year.