You've felt your stomach growl, but do you know exactly where your spleen sits? Over the coming weeks, we'll guide you through the fascinating world of your organs and how they function.
Most of us have a general sense of what our bodies do, but diving deeper into organ function—especially if you're not in the medical field—can enhance your health knowledge and appreciation.
Also read: '3 tips to get through the summer fit and full of energy'
Food and drink travel from your esophagus into the small intestine, then onward to the large intestine. The small intestine absorbs essential nutrients, while indigestible remnants move to the large intestine, where they form stool for elimination.
Your small intestine stretches about 5 meters and includes three key sections: the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum. These connect sequentially, with the ileum linking directly to the large intestine. The large intestine comprises the appendix, colon (its main section), and rectum—the final stop before elimination.
Both intestines excel at one primary task: propelling food downward through coordinated muscle contractions and relaxations. Along the way, vital nutrients are extracted to nourish your gut microbiome and overall health.
This system is remarkably efficient. The stomach releases food into the small intestine in small portions, where enzymes and bile break down proteins, vitamins, minerals, fats, and carbohydrates for absorption. Notably, only the ileum can absorb vitamin B12. Indigestible material reaches the large intestine as a liquid slurry. Here, water and salts are reabsorbed, transforming it into solid stool.
Next week: All about our lungs.
