Happy Intestine
The intestines is categorized into two different areas or sections. The small intestines are approximately 20 to 25 feet in length. The small intestines are divided into three different areas based on its function. The lining of the small intestines are either made up of many intricate folds, with tiny, finger-like projections and hair-like projections in these areas. These surfaces allow for absorption of nutrients during the digestion process. The large intestines are approximately 5 feet in length. This is the area where water is absorbed and salt and waste materials solidify for removal. The large intestines are divided into four areas based on function ending in the anus portion of the body.
Why is it important to care for your gut? Seventy percent of the immune system begins in the gut, therefore nutrition is extremely important in its care. Foods high in fibre are necessary for building and maintaining the good bacteria which in turns maintains a strong immune system. Research has identified diets high in animal proteins, sugars, processed foods and saturated fat destroy gut bacteria, thus promoting inflammation and leading to chronic disease. A healthy diet should be made up of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts, legumes, and seeds. Whenever possible, a diet containing 50% to 80% raw plant products promote good gut bacteria.
Even when you eat well, our lifestyle or environmental factors, like stress can cause issues with the gut. Other things we can do to help protect and treat the gut would be to get more exercise and sleep. These two practices help the body to lose and maintain weight plus manage stress. Also drinking half your body weight in ounces of water. This keeps the intestines moving. Try starting the morning with a warm cup of water, adding half of a fresh lemon. Drinking fresh pressed juices of green vegetables, green apples, lemon and aloe vera will help to cleanse the colon. In addition to cleansing, these foods contain beneficial nutrients. Herbal teas such as psyllium, aloe vera, marshmallow root and slippery elm aid the colon during constipation. Ginger will stimulate digestion and can be added to the teas or juices. Lastly, short-term fasting, drinking only water, fresh vegetable or fruit juices will help to cleanse the colon as well as the kidneys and liver, helping to eliminate harmful toxins.