You are what you eat

You are what you eat. An old wives tale, and like most old wives tales, with an element of truth. Our ability to eat allows us to grow, to move, and to stay healthy. Through the process of digestion, we use food, so that we can live.

Digestion starts in the mouth, with chewing, and saliva. From there the food is processed by the stomach, which in a healthy individual is very acidic. Stomach acid is required for proper breakdown of certain proteins. Symptoms such as stomach pain, and heartburn result when the stomach's protective lining is damaged. Having low acid also predisposes you to contracting a bacteria called H. pylori, which in turn can lead to more heartburn, stomach pain and even ulcers. While taking over the counter acid blockers may result in a decrease in symptoms, it does not deal with the underlying problem of inadequate protection from the normal and important strong stomach acid.

From the stomach the food enters the small intestine where both bile from the gall bladder, and enzymes and bicarbonate from the pancreas are added. Bile enables fats to be absorbed and the enzymes breakdown larger fat molecules, carbohydrates and sugars and proteins into smaller pieces which can then be absorbed. Vitamins and minerals are also absorbed, through the small intestine and into the colon which is primarily responsible for water absorption. Low levels of bile or enzymes will decrease the body's ability to absorb nutrients and can lead to fatigue, deficiencies, and general digestive upset. Intestinal bacteria also play a role, assisting with digestion and producing vitamins and other substances. An improper balance of bacteria, or presence of pathogenic bacteria, yeast, fungi or parasites can all impair digestion. This imbalance most commonly causes abdominal pain, gas, diarrhea, constipation or bloating. It can also cause fatigue, and general malaise. Waste products are excreted as stool.

To keep your digestion healthy, eat calmly, chew well, try not to overeat and don't focus on anything else (reading a book, TV) while eating. Fibre, in the form of vegetables, fruit, and complex carbohydrates is important to maintaining digestive health. You need the proper bacteria, in balance. Bacteria can be affected by parasites, food poisoning, poor diet, and antibiotics. Live culture, plain yoghurt is a food source for the proper bacteria, as are high quality acidophilus/bifidus supplements.

Digestive complaints that do not resolve easily and fully should be investigated to determine the cause. As well as the problems above, food sensitivities and intolerances are common causes of poor digestion. Particularly with age decreased enzyme levels, and decreased stomach acid can lead to trouble. While there are many other causes, these are the common ones.

This article is of a general nature and is not intended as treatment advice. Please contact your health care provider before undertaking any course of treatment.

Copyright 2000 Dr. Isis van Loon.