Your Digestive Health and Good Nutrition

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The gastrointestinal tract (also known as the GI tract) consists of the stomach and intestines. It is an important component of the digestive system and it works to process food and waste.

Here’s how your digestive system works:

1. Food passes from the mouth, through the esophagus and down into the stomach and intestines.
2. Food is broken down by enzymes into nutrients the body can absorb and use for energy.
3. The remaining, unused portion is passed through to the large intestine and colon where it is excreted from the body.

Your digestive system is like a piece of fine machinery. Many different parts work together to process food into useful energy. In order to get the maximum benefit from fuel, the type of fuel put into this machine must be of a high quality to begin with. Food, vitamins and nutrients are the fuel we need for our digestive system to run properly so the rest of the body can be energized and revitalized. General maintenance

To improve digestive health and maintain it, it is important to eat a balanced and varied diet that contains fruits and vegetables. Some of the foods that promote intestinal health and function are bran and other whole grain breads and cereals, beans, dried fruits (particularly plums) and nuts. Whole, raw fruits and vegetables are premium fuel

Avoid foods that are high in fats and especially avoid concentrated sweets. Focus on foods that contain complex carbohydrates.

Simple carbohydrates are high in calories but have little food value such as vitamins and minerals. Common forms of simple carbohydrates are:

• Sucrose (table sugar)
• Glucose (dextrose)
• Fructose (fruit sugar)
• Lactose (milk suger)
• Maltose (malt sugar)
• Honey
• Corn syrup
• Maple syrup
• Brown sugar
• Beet sugar
• Confectioner’s sugar

Complex carbohydrates generally contain much more nutrition and are sometimes rich in fiber. Some foods high in complex carbohydrates are:

• Grains (found in bread, rice, pasta and cereal)
• Some fruits
• Some vegetables, especially beans and potatoes

Complex carbohydrates are introduced into the bloodstream gradually and are a more lasting source of energy than simple carbohydrates. Foods that feature complex carbohydrates are full of vitamins and minerals. Whole grains and unprocessed fruits and vegetables will increase your intake of another important dietary component called fiber.
In addition to eating the right kinds of food for digestive health, it is important to drink plenty of fluids. Include a beverage with every meal. Try to choose low-calorie or non-caffeinated drinks like water, herbal teas and fruit juices.