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Digestive Health
The digestive system is a 25- to 35-foot-long hoselike structure. It receives food at one end, breaks it down into nutrients (a process called digestion), and absorbs the nutrients into the bloodstream for delivery to the cells. The eliminatory system helps maintain water and chemical balance and remove excess fluid and waste from the body.
The primary structures of these systems are the mouth, esophagus, stomach and large intestines (colon), kidneys, bladder, and anus.
When things go wrong
Digestive disorders are a major source of lost time. We all are familiar with such inconveniences as constipation, diarrhea, heartburn, urinary tract infections, flatulence, and upset stomachs. Digestive disorders also account for such serious problems as hepatitis, jaundice, cirrhosis, diverticular disease, and cancers of the digestive system.
Why things go wrong
Diet is often the main culprit. We eat too much processed food and sugar, and not enough fiber, fruits, and vegetables. Poor eating habits, such as eating too quickly or irregularly, are also part of the problem. Other risk factors are lack of exercise, effects of prescription and over-the-counter drugs, smoking, stress, and alcohol.
To maintain digestive-eliminatory health
Many digestive problems can be prevented through lifestyle. Live the Healthy Cell Concepttm and be sure to get adequate amounts of fiber, fruits, and vegetables. Supplementing with pre- and probiotics and digestive enzymes can aid in digestion.
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