Health professionals recommend eating a healthy and balanced diet for as long as possible; this in order to prevent diseases in the short, medium and long term. What you eat plays an important role in digestive health, more precisely in the health of the intestines.
The portal of health and medicine Medlineplus Explain the role of the small intestine in the body. “The small intestine is the longest part of the digestive system (6 meters) and connects the stomach to the large intestine (colon) and bends many times to enter the abdomen. This intestine does most of the digestion; in addition, it has three areas: the duodenum, the ileum and the jejunum”.
The most frequent problems that affect the small intestine are:
- bleeding.
- Celiac Disease.
- Crohn’s disease.
- infections.
- Bowel cancer.
- Intestinal obstruction.
- Irritable bowel syndrome.
- Ulcers.
On the other hand, “the large intestine is responsible for absorbing water from indigestible food residues. The ileocecal valve in the ileum (small intestine) passes material into the large intestine through the cecum. The material passes through the ascending, descending, transverse and sigmoid portions of the colon and finally into the rectum, meaning that, Through the large intestine, feces are expelled from the body.
The health, beauty and personal care portal Gastrolab mentions an eating plan that seeks to promote a healthier diet for those who risk carrying it out. The diet is also intended avoid foods and products that alter or damage the intestinal microbiotagenerating inflammation in some of the organs that comprise the digestive system.
Diet to improve the health of the intestines
The feeding model proposed by the medium must be carried out for three consecutive days, although the person can extend this period of time. Gastrolab mentions the functions of the microbiota and the importance of taking care of it through a healthy and balanced diet.
“The intestinal microbiota consists of the set of microorganisms present in the intestine that protect the digestive system from viruses and bacteria; It also fulfills certain functions such as synthesizing vitamins, regulate the immune system, generate serotonin, among others”.
When a person does not eat healthily and excessively consumes foods rich in trans fats, saturated fats or with a high sugar content; this generates inflammation in the intestines and the main symptoms are: discomfort, heaviness, gas, constipation, diarrhea or constipation.
Foods to avoid
- Gluten: wheat, barley, rye, any type of bread and crackers.
- Sugar: and everything that contains it in an added form, that is, sweets, sweets, desserts, yogurts, soft drinks and industrialized drinks and juices.
- Avoid food rich in saturated fats: processed meats and sausages.
- Fermentable vegetables: garlic, artichoke, celery, eggplant, broccoli, cauliflower, onion, brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, escarole, asparagus, lettuce, beets and mushrooms.
In addition to avoiding these foods, it is recommended to have good habits, among which are:
- Eat fresh produce and healthy fats: green and colored leafy vegetables, fruits in their natural state, olive oil, nuts, seeds, oily fish and lean proteins (low in fat).
- stay hydrated: Health professionals recommend that an adult consume six to eight glasses of water a day, which is equivalent to two liters; “because a large part of the functions throughout the body depend on it, and of course, the digestive system”
- Avoid irritating drinks: As the alcohol or caffeine, instead it is advisable to drink teas or infusions of natural origin.
- Sleep at least 8 hours: “lack of sleep can have adverse effects on the gut microbiota.”
- Do exercise: It is recommended to do physical activity at least three times a week for 30 consecutive minutes. Performing some type of sport has positive effects on the microbiota.