THE DIGESTIVE SYSTEM
The main purpose of the digestive system is to break
down carbohydrates, fats and proteins into modecules
small enough for us to absorb them. This provides cells
with necessary energy for life and health. The digestive
tract course begins at the mouth, ending with the rectum.
In betwen is the esophagus, stomach small and large
intestines. If we are what we eat, then what we are is only
as good as our digestive system. When it goes awry, it
affect our whole body. Whether it be mild nausea, or
chronic disorders. If those conditions persist they can
undermine our total health and even threaten our lives.
Digestion begins in the mouth when food is chewed
and starch is broken down by ptyalin, an enzyme
secreted in saliva. Food moves to the stomach where
it is reduced to tiny particles and further transformed
by gastric juices. The solid portion remains in the
stomach six hours while it liquefies completely. Liquid
then passes into the duodenum where enzymes that
are produced move it along with bile from the liver and
break it down further for absorption. By the time it arrives
in the large interstines all nutrients have been spend and
the remaining process is the removal of water and the
final elimination from the body.

DISEASES OF UPPER GI TRACT

Gastroesophagel Reflux Disease (GERD)
People with GERD and Ulcers should avoid caffeine-containing
beverages like coffee, tea, and Cola drinks. Avoid smoking, and
meat extracts such as boulion cubes, concentrated canned
broths and canned gravies. Avoid acid containng foods like
pickles, tomato and orange. Drink mildly-alcoholic beverages
like wine and beer and avoid stong alcoholic drinks. Avoid
chocolate. Test your tolerance for foods know to cause heartburn
or indigestion such as sauerkraut, hot dogs, onions, beans and
citrus juices and spicy foods. Do not eat large meals or have a
large meal close to bed time. Instead eat 5-6 small meals a day.
Relax and take plenty of time eating, do not lie down for several
hours after eating and be sure to get adequate nutrition.

Gastroenteritis
This is diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and abdomeninal cramping
brought on by bacteria, amoebas, parasites, toxins and allergens
in food. Treatment includes bed rest, fluids, bismuth containing
products and nausea drugs like Tigan.

Chronic Gastritis
This it inflammation of the s tomach lining. It is sometimes caused
by eating irritating substances. Many experience vague pain, fever,
loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting. Treatment consist of
eliminating the irritating foods, avoiding aspirin products,

Ulcers/Duodenal Ulcers
Ulcers occur in the lower esophagus, stomach, or any part of small
intestines. Contributors are chronic use of aspirin products, alcohol,
and cigerette smoking. Ulcers use heartburn, pain, nausea, indigestion.
Most ulcers are bacterial infections and may be cured with antibiotics
such as Biaxin, Tritec and Prevpac. Oversecretion of gastric acids
and stress contribute. Acid reducing drugs such as Prevacid, Prilosec,
Protonix, Tagamet and Zantac can help.

Gastric Cancer
Gastric Cancer is the more severe gastric disorder but is somewhat
less common. More prevelant in cultures that have diets with heavy
consumption of pickled, smoked or salt preserved foods and those
containing certain other elements. Less likely in persons with diets
containing milk, fresh vegetables, fruits and rich in vitamin C.

DISEASES OF LARGE INTESTINES

Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Inflammatory Bowel Disease

Diverticulosis

Intestinal Polyps

Colon Cancer

OTHER GI PROBLEMS

Hemorrhoids

Constipation

Pancreatitis

Generalized things to avoid if Digestive Problems
Eat 5-6 smaller meals
Avoid aspirin containing medications
Avoid tight clothing
Elevate the head when sleeping without pressure on Stomach
Avoid lying down after eating for 2-3 hours after eating
Avoid acid fruits and foods
Avoid chocolate and caffeine
Avoid alcohol and cigerettes
Avoid high fat foods, gravies and sauces

*Information contained herein is intented for general
information and is not intented to replace your
Doctor, Pharmacist or Health Care Provider.*

For description and information on any disease go to
PDR (physicians desk reference) site.

http://consumer.pdr.net/consumer

and click on disease overview. This will provide you
with all information.