Stomach - how does it work?

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Our digestive system works like a conveyor belt, but with the opposite result. As the food bolus moves along the gastrointestinal tract, it is not the assembly of a complex structure that occurs, but the reverse process - the disassembly of complex organic matter into simpler structures. These processes are necessary for the consumed food to be assimilated, and for the substances that enter the blood to be used for construction or for the energy needs of the body. Stomach is one of the stages of such a process of splitting complex chains of organic substances.

Some interesting facts about the stomach

Did you know that the internal volume of the stomach in an empty state is on average 500 ml, and when filled it can reach 4 liters?
Do you know that the area of the mucosa of this organ is 0.1 - 0.2 square meters?
Did you know that the acidity of the stomach on an empty stomach is 1.5 - 2.0 pH? Chemical liquids of this acidity are able to dissolve many synthetic plastics and fabrics.
Did you know that, despite the increased acidity of the gastric juice, acid-fast bacteria live on the surface of the mucous membranes?
Do you know that during the day the gland secretes 2-2.5 liters of gastric juice?

A bit of anatomy

The stomach is a natural extension of the esophagus. This organ is located under the diaphragm, the upper abdomen, mostly in the left half of the abdominal cavity. Continues in duodenum. It is separated from the esophagus and duodenum by the so-called sphincter, which is represented by a thickening of circular muscle tissue at the point where the stomach passes into neighboring organs. digestive tract.

The structure of the stomach wall

There are 3 main layers in the stomach:

Outdoor - serous layer , it is represented by a single-layer film, which provides moisture and sliding properties of the surface of the stomach. Thanks to these properties serous membrane ensures the mobility of the stomach, its free sliding relative to neighboring organs, painlessness of work.

Middle layer - muscular . The muscular layer is represented by several layers. Distinctive feature each layer is a direction muscle fibers. In the thickness of the muscular membrane, longitudinal, oblique and circumferential muscle fibers are distinguished. It is thanks to such a variety of directions of muscle fibers that the stomach is able to provide active promotion and mixing of food.

The inner layer is mucous . This layer is the most complex in its structure. The area of the gastric mucosa exceeds the area of the muscular membrane, due to which there is always folding in the lumen, even if it is completely filled. The mucous membrane is connected to the muscular membrane very freely, due to which there is the possibility of folding. Cellular composition The mucosa is heterogeneous - the cells form many glands that secrete various enzymes and electrolytes into the lumen of the stomach.

Glands of the stomach and their function

In the gastric mucosa there are many glands that specialize in the secretion of special enzymes or electrolytes. Consider the main types of mucosal glands:

1.major glands - the most numerous type of glands. The main function of these structures is the synthesis and secretion of special enzymes, pepsinogens, into the lumen of the stomach. This group of enzymes, acting on the food that enters the stomach, leads to the splitting of certain sections of protein chains. This prepares protein molecules for further splitting in the lumen of the small intestine, leads to swelling of the products, and contributes to a more thorough mixing of gastric juice with food.

2. parietal glands These glands synthesize hydrochloric acid. This achieves optimal acidity for the functioning of stomach enzymes. Also, high acidity is a natural disinfectant - most bacteria are unable to survive in such an acidic environment. Increased acidity leads to swelling of food masses, which leads to an increase in the contact area " gastric juice- food masses" and increases the efficiency of splitting food.

3. Additional cells - produce mucus. Given the very aggressive environment in the lumen of the stomach, the mucosa needs protective factors. One such factor is the special mucus that coats thin layer the surface of the inner shell, preventing the damaging effect of pepsins and hydrochloric acid. Mucus also contributes to the unhindered movement of food into the subsequent sections of the digestive tract.

Physiology of the stomach

From the above anatomical and microscopic features of the stomach, it is clear that this organ performs two main functions: the promotion of the food bolus and the associated enzymatic and physical processing of food.

Movements in the stomach are mainly provided through the coordinated work of muscle tissue. When food passes through lower divisions mucosal receptors are irritated in the esophagus, which automatically gives an impulse leading to the opening of the inlet sphincter, which delimits the esophageal cavity from the stomach cavity.

When food enters the stomach, the acidity of the gastric juice changes, the food mechanically affects the mucous membrane, which leads to wave-like contractions of the muscle layers. However, food in this section is delayed for a long time, and the most important regulators of the duration of food in the stomach are the acidity of gastric juice, mechanical stretching of the walls, chemical and physical properties of the food consumed. Several types of movement are carried out in the stomach: peristaltic or undulating ( promote the movement of food masses through the stomach in the direction of the duodenum), systolic or compressive ( these movements contribute to the mixing of food masses and gastric juice).

When advancing a certain portion of food that has entered the stomach into the antrum ( final department) the area is the stretching of the mucous membrane of this area and the opening of the gastroduodenal sphincter. Due to this, a portion of the food that has entered the stomach and undergone partial processing enters the duodenum.

Thanks to such well-coordinated work, the food received in the process of eating is accumulated in the stomach, processed by gastric juice and partially advanced to the lower sections of the small intestine.

At the same time, the coordinated work of muscle tissue ensures the unidirectional movement of food and prevents its reverse movement ( reflux).
The movements of the stomach are regulated directly by the muscular tissue of the stomach - in response to mechanical stretching and by the autonomic nervous system, which transmits impulses from the brain. Also, hormone-like substances produced by the stomach itself or neighboring bodies, can affect the activity of muscle tissue.
From all the above, it becomes clear that the movement of food through the digestive tract is a complex and regulated process at different levels, the activity of which is influenced by many factors.

secretion of the stomach

Gastric juice is a rather aggressive environment. Therefore, in order for the secret of the gastric glands to bring only benefits to the body, without causing damage to the stomach, a well-functioning system of regulation of secretion is required.
Immediately it is worth mentioning the fact that the secretion of the stomach is regulated by several systems and is in direct relationship with many factors according to the feedback principle.

Secretion is regulated by the central nervous system, and the emotional background, the perception of the sense organs have an indirect effect on the activity of secretion. In my experiences I. P. Pavlov proved that the visual, olfactory, gustatory or conditioned reflex perception of approaching food intake causes an unambiguous stimulation of the secretion of gastric juice.

At the level of the stomach itself, there are mechanisms for self-regulation of the secretion of gastric juice. This regulation is carried out by means of hormone-like substances that are synthesized by the tissues of the stomach itself, or in the tissues of the pancreas and duodenum. With an increase in acidity in the lumen of the duodenum, the activity of the parietal glands decreases, which leads to a decrease in the acidity of the stomach. When food enters the stomach, its mucosa is stretched, which increases the activity of all its glands.

So, the stomach is not only a mechanical reservoir for the food we consume, but also a complex system, which makes an important contribution to the breakdown and assimilation of the consumed food. This section of the digestive tract performs a protective function, thanks to hyperacidity and aggressive proteolytic enzymes, gastric juice is a good antiseptic, and destroys most of the currently known bacteria.

The gastric mucosa also has a system of protection against self-digestion - after all, the stomach tissues themselves are not much different in composition from those consumed with food. meat products. However, damage to the stomach wall, as a rule, does not occur during digestion. Only when the mucosal defense system fails do

It is difficult to find a person who has never wondered how to normalize bowel function. After all, failures in the body can occur due to various reasons, manifesting themselves in a number of unpleasant and often painful symptoms. How should you adjust your lifestyle and what should you do in general to get rid of bowel problems?

When there are problems with digestion, it is impossible not to notice this. Most often, violations in the work of the intestines are accompanied by painful sensations, bloating and increased gas formation, various problems with the stool. The question of how to improve the functioning of the intestines of an adult can arise against the background of poisoning, viral infection, due to persistent and regular constipation or taking antibiotics that injure the mucous membrane and microflora in the intestine.
Before diligently looking for a pharmacological or folk type remedy for normalizing bowel function, it is necessary to “assess the situation” and understand what exactly provoked the occurrence of such a problem. Often the banal elimination of the root cause, which may be hidden, for example, in wrong diet, leads to a quick and lasting deliverance from the negative state.

Various synthetic means can do more harm to the body than good. Especially if they do not combine well with additional drugs. And phytotherapy for better digestion and tablets for normalizing the intestinal microflora can be relevant in any cases of violations in the work of this body. However, in addition to such treatment, it is necessary to know how to improve bowel function in general so as not to encounter more unpleasant symptoms.

Normalization of bowel function: general tips

For the digestive tract to work in the best way should be preferred healthy and active lifestyle. It is the movement that helps to establish digestion and the functioning of internal organs, having a positive effect on well-being. It is worth starting to exercise, walking and walking more, swimming, fitness or dancing, cycling and rollerblading, and generally less sitting in uncomfortable, unsuccessful positions, squeezing the stomach and intestines.
Any physical activity should be combined with enough clean drinking water consumed during the day. No diet to normalize bowel function will bring a positive result if there is a lack of clean fluid in the body. Water stimulates the activity of the intestines, makes the feces softer, relieving possible constipation. Therefore, it is important to drink at least 2 liters of purified and non-carbonated water per day.
Refusal from "bad" food. Such foods include semi-finished products, “burning”, fatty, heavy dishes, foods with preservatives, dyes, sweet carbonated drinks, as well as alcohol, instant juices. Having a tendency to difficult bowel movements, trying to understand how to improve bowel function with constipation, you need to exclude chocolate, pastries, “fixing” foods and drinks with tannins in them.
To avoid diarrhea caused by viruses, pathogenic bacteria and chopsticks, you should accustom yourself wash hands thoroughly not only after using the toilet, but also before each meal, even if there was no need to leave the house before lunch or dinner. It is also important to wash vegetables, fruits, eggs well, avoid spoiled foods and be careful about exotic dishes if you have a “weak” stomach.
Reception vitamin and mineral complexes will positively affect the state of all body systems. Worth adding bioactive supplements that improve the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract and decisive question with how to normalize the intestinal microflora. Such additives include, for example, Linex. You can replace it with prebiotics and probiotics, for example, Acepol.
General dietary modification is the answer to the question of how to normalize bowel function when chronic constipation. You should add more fresh foods, foods rich in fiber to your meals. It is also necessary from time to time to do fasting days”, to carry out a complete cleansing of the digestive organ, using herbs to normalize bowel function.
Menu changes should also apply to those people who often face the problem of how to normalize bowel function during bouts of diarrhea, which is not a symptom of poisoning. In cases of diarrhea, it is necessary to increase the amount of fluid consumed in order to prevent possible dehydration. Homemade compotes, black tea and jelly are also considered useful in such cases.
Worth getting into the habit eat small meals, but do it often, up to 5-6 times a day. This facilitates the process of digestion of food, reduces the load on the digestive tract. It is important to chew all foods thoroughly. At this stage, it is also necessary to get rid of existing problems with the teeth by visiting a doctor's office.
Another remedy for the normalization of bowel function - self massage belly. It should be done with soft circular movements, slightly pressing on the body. A massage is done in the morning, after drinking on an empty stomach at least one glass of drinking water, which is necessary to "awaken" the digestive tract and the whole body. In addition to massage, classes with a hula hoop, regular or massage magnetic balls have a beneficial effect on digestion.
Extreme diets, hunger strikes should be excluded so as not to encounter problems with the intestines.

It is not necessary to use laxatives frequently or regularly to normalize the process of defecation. Such drugs often containing senna are addictive, capable of provoking a “flaccid bowel syndrome”, when it will no longer be possible to do without taking pills. Synthetic laxatives are contraindicated during pregnancy.

Taking into account such recommendations will allow you to gradually normalize the work of the intestines in comfortable home conditions, and eliminate the risk of a recurrence of the condition. However, the use of additional the right products, herbs or well-chosen medicines) will help solve an acute problem and fix positive result after.

Correction of the usual menu

The so-called diet to normalize bowel function often includes a general correction of the diet. Doctors are of the opinion that even a short period of vegetarianism can positively affect the functioning of the digestive organs and get rid of negative conditions associated with the intestines. However, it is important to know the list of products that help normalize the gastrointestinal tract without taking pills to stabilize the intestines.

Vegetables: beets, cabbage (including sauerkraut), cucumbers, carrots, tomatoes and tomatoes, onions. Potatoes and legumes help with a "relaxed" stomach.
Berries and fruits: melon, kiwi, avocado, apples, raspberries, peaches and apricots, citrus fruits, white grapes. To “fix” the chair, you should lean on bananas, blackcurrant and rose hips help.
Dried fruits: figs, dried apricots, raisins.
Fermented milk products: sour cream, cottage cheese, kefir, pure yogurt and products with the prefix "bifido". Thanks to this food, you can also solve the problem of how to normalize the intestinal microflora. Since it is in an acidic environment that the necessary bacteria multiply rapidly.
Herbal teas and infusions, for example, containing lemon balm, which are also among the options for stabilizing the functioning of the intestines with folk remedies.
Foods containing enough fiber, which stimulates and improves digestion, helping the intestines. Such foods include: bran, muesli, various cereals (for example, buckwheat, oatmeal and barley to eliminate constipation, and rice and semolina to “fix” the stool), black bread and unsweetened pastries made from wholemeal flour.
vegetable and olive oil also have a positive effect on the state of the digestive system.
A chicken can bring a positive effect, lean fish steamed.

In the process of bringing your digestion in order, it is better to exclude from the diet a large amount of salt, various seasonings, sweets, mayonnaise. However, mustard, pepper, honey should be left.

Cleansing diet to normalize bowel function

This kind of diet can be used from time to time for 2-4 days to cleanse the intestines, bring it into tone. It is quite simple in execution, although not diverse.

During the diet, you must not forget to drink enough water, as on other days.

morning meal should begin with the use of a small spoon mixed with each other flax seeds and grains of sprouted wheat. Drink a glass of slightly warm water, after 25-35 minutes, start breakfast.

Breakfast: oatmeal on the water without salt and sweeteners. You can supplement to taste with honey, dried fruits, nuts or fresh berries, fruits. From drinks you should drink chamomile or Mint tea and natural yoghurt.

Snack: dried fruits, nuts, 2 apples or fresh vegetable or fruit juice.

Dinner: lean soup or steamed vegetables should be prepared. On one of the days, it is advisable to replace dishes with a mixture of apples, beets and carrots with butter or cabbage-carrot salad. Supplement lunch with a small piece of chicken or fish, yogurt or fermented baked milk.

Snack: herbal tea, fruit.

Dinner: before it should use half a glass of sour cream. On myself evening reception food- vegetable or fruit salad(or mashed potatoes), fish, a couple of slices of bread, herbal tea.

Before bedtime you need to drink a glass of kefir or yogurt.

The process of improving the work of the intestines by folk methods must necessarily be combined with diet menu, as well as combined with general tips for stable operation digestive system.

Folk healers Special attention give both herbal teas, collections and tinctures, as well as individual products. One of simple recipes is a soak in warm water prunes (dried) for 4-6 hours. After that, you can eat prunes, drink the resulting broth.

An effective remedy from traditional medicine, which helps with constipation, is lemon and honey water. Drink any of similar drinks should be warm, always in the morning and on an empty stomach.

Among the main herbs that act as mild natural medicines that help stabilize the work of the intestines and all digestive organs, there are:

chamomile (should be taken with caution if you are prone to constipation, but effective for diarrhea);

Digestion is an indispensable process. As a result of the activity of the digestive system, a person receives the necessary chemical substances and energy for life.

Food is digested in the stomach. As a result chemical reactions food decomposes, it becomes possible to extract the simplest components from it and absorb them into the blood. It all starts with the fact that a person chews food, which then descends into the stomach. The opening through which food passes from the esophagus to the stomach is called the cardia. Muscles in the area of the cardia work like a gateway, i.e. food only travels in one direction.

The stomach in the process of digesting food is filled with gastric juice more than half. Food falls into this liquid and begins to be digested there. Bottom part stomach is not so spacious. The end of the stomach is somewhat narrowed and is in a horizontal position. This part of the stomach is called the pylorus.

As already mentioned, in the pyloric part of the stomach narrows, it becomes like a tube. Next is the opening leading to the duodenum. The pyloric muscles work like a valve. They push the semi-digested food into the intestines, preventing the food from passing back.

The stomach is surrounded by muscles - longitudinal, circular and oblique. The inner part is called body of the stomach, while the inside of the stomach is covered with a mucous membrane. Muscles are needed by the stomach in order for food to move in the direction from the cardia to the exit from the stomach. Muscle movements are undulating, along the way they mix food with gastric juice, squeeze food and make it grind into even smaller pieces. A slurry is formed, almost a liquid. This product of the stomach is called chyme.

Food is ground in the stomach not only due to muscles, but also due to chemistry - in the stomach, food is exposed to a strong acid - gastric juice. Gastric acid appears in the stomach itself (it is secreted by cells on inner surface stomach). In addition, an enzyme is produced pepsin and hydrochloric acid. All three substances help to digest the incoming food, split it into pieces.

Stomach acid is so strong that it can burn through a carpet or digest a piece of iron (such as a razor blade). Without this property, gastric juice would not be able to cope with ordinary tasks, because. proteins are very difficult to digest. It is also important that he the stomach is made up of protein. Why then does the process of digestion not involve the stomach itself? The secret lies in the properties of the walls of the stomach. They are uneven, consist of jagged zigzag folds. And in the depths of these folds are special cells that can protect the stomach from its own juice. These cells are able to produce mucus that envelops the stomach, forming the so-called mucous membrane. It turns out that two completely opposite groups of cells work in the stomach - some secrete the strongest acid, others - the opposite substance "mucus" (mucus that protects against acids).

The mucous membrane protects not only from acid, but also from microbes too. Viruses cannot enter the body through food amazing properties mucus. Another function of this mucus is to facilitate the movement of food to the lower stomach. Thanks to the cardia, stomach acid does not penetrate higher (into the esophagus). If there were no such protection, the esophagus would quickly become destroyed (burned by acid), because the esophagus has no protection in the form of mucus.

Gastritis and ulcers appear only when the thickness of the mucus layer becomes too thin. As a result, wounds appear on the walls - the stomach begins to digest itself. Only the simultaneous work of mucus and acid in the stomach makes possible process digestion. And this one complex mechanism works for a person from the moment of his birth until the last days.

Medical statistics show that 90% of the population, including adults and children, suffer from gastroenterological diseases. The main factors in the development of pathologies are incorrect eating behavior, bad habits, psycho-emotional tension and self-treatment.

In connection with the situation, there is a clear trend - early application for medical care gives a high chance of full recovery and improving the quality of life. To normalize the work of the intestines and eliminate uncomfortable sensations, strict adherence to medical recommendations, patience and self-discipline will be required.

Symptoms of digestive disorders

Digestive disorder is understood as a complex of characteristic clinical symptoms from the digestive tract, not associated with severe lesions. In most cases, without correct treatment, disorders occur due to changes in intestinal motility and deviations from the secretory and absorption functions of the digestive tract. Therefore, the importance of early comprehensive diagnosis and correction can hardly be overestimated, and the reason for consultation is the appearance characteristic symptoms, which includes:

unpleasant odor from the mouth;
nausea, belching, bitter taste;
unstable chair;
flatulence;
pain in the epigastric region.

Disorders in the functioning of the digestive tract without medical and behavioral correction lead to endocrine and allergic diseases. Therefore, gastroenterological examination is primarily subject to patients with a persistent course bronchial asthma, neurodermatitis, anemia, metabolic syndrome.

Causes of bowel dysfunction

Digestion takes place in the lumen small intestine and carried out mainly pancreatic enzymes. It is generally accepted that the main cause of diarrhea or constipation is pancreatic insufficiency. Also isolated inflammatory and infectious processes providing pernicious influence on the intestinal mucosa and motility:

a decrease in the production of hydrochloric acid and pepsin that occurs with gastritis caused by Heliobacter pylori infection;
autoimmune inflammation, accompanied by a violation of the absorption of trace elements;
biliary dyskinesia, in which there is a decrease in the contractile function of the gallbladder;
imbalance of microflora (dysbacteriosis), which causes flatulence and stool instability;
inflammation of the small intestine (enteritis), which is the result of infections, helminthic invasions and chronic diseases of the stomach;
intoxication resulting from food or chemical poisoning;
autoimmune lesions, manifested by chronic inflammation of various parts of the intestine;
hepatitis.

Modern methods of diagnostics and treatment

Treatment of the digestive organs is preceded by a thorough diagnosis, which includes innovative techniques: laparoscopy, MRI, gastroscopy, rectoscopy, scintigraphy, endo - and colonoscopy. A number of laboratory tests of blood, feces, urine, liver tests are also carried out. Comprehensive screening programs allow accurate diagnosis and early detection of diseases.

Modern medicine offers patients minimally invasive interventions. Treatment during gastroscopy peptic ulcer, resection of polyps, stop bleeding. Newest surgical techniques allow to carry out organ-preserving operations on the esophagus, various parts of the intestine, liver, pancreas and gallbladder.

How to improve bowel function with constipation

The rate of stool frequency is an individual concept and is determined by the age of the patient, the presence of concomitant pathologies and the characteristics of the organism. The act of defecation every two or three days is a physiological norm. Rarer settings indicate chronic colitis, cholecystitis, irritable bowel syndrome and pancreatic dysfunction. To find out the causes of the condition, you need to contact a gastroenterologist. Here are some tips to help ease bowel problems:

to create additional volume in the intestines, it is necessary to drink a glass of water at room temperature on an empty stomach;
a laxative effect is provided by fresh kefir, which is consumed shortly before a night's rest;
abdominal massage will help to empty.

Basic condition correct operation intestine is balanced diet, from which it is recommended to exclude sugar, pastries, carbonated drinks, fatty meats and alcohol.

Medicines for the treatment of constipation

To improve bowel function will help complex drug therapy. The treatment regimen usually includes drugs for the regulation of peristalsis, mild laxatives, antidepressants, hepatoprotectors, probiotics.

Normaze, Lactulose, Duphalac - inhibit the growth of pathogenic microflora, are not addictive and can be used for a long time.
Rectal suppositories Glycerol, Glycelax soften stool and produce laxative effect. They are used in patients after a stroke, heart attack, during pregnancy and hemorrhoids.
Pancreatin, Festal, Creon, Panzinorm - improve digestion, support the pancreas and liver. Enzymatic preparations are prescribed when undigested food is found in the feces, pain in the epigastric region and nausea.
Acipol, Goodluck, Linex, Bifinorm, Hilak forte - regulate the balance of intestinal microflora, normalize its composition and acidity. Against the background of taking the medicine, a natural synthesis of vitamins is observed and the disturbed water-electrolyte balance in the lumen of the small intestine is restored.
Essentiale Forte, Karsil, Liv 52 - hepatoprotective agents. Usually prescribed for chronic constipation caused by disorders in the liver. They have a choleretic, antitoxic and antioxidant effect, restore hepatocytes and normalize blood composition.
Motilium, Trimedat, Motilak - antispasmodics that increase the tone of the sphincter and intestinal motility; relieve flatulence, nausea and vomiting.

Modern pharmacology offers a large selection of drugs for constipation. It is important to understand that the maximum effect has complex treatment based on an individual approach.

Folk remedies for constipation

The best laxatives are vegetable oils- castor, vaseline, olive, linseed. Means are taken on an empty stomach for no more than three days, which is associated with high risk the development of pancreatitis and a decrease in rectal sensitivity.

To normalize metabolic processes and the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract, grind 300 g of aloe leaves in a blender (it is not recommended to water the plant for three days before cutting). Mix the blank with 500 g of honey and a bottle of red wine. The remedy is taken according to the following scheme: 1 tsp. within a week, then 1 tbsp. l. three times a day 30-40 minutes before meals. The duration of treatment is from two weeks to several months.

For constipation accompanied intestinal colic and flatulence, prepare a mixture of herbs taken in equal proportions: yarrow, chamomile first-aid kit, sage and St. John's wort. Brew with boiling water (0.5 l) one tablespoon of the collection, let it brew and take 100 ml twice a day before meals.

To improve peristalsis, it is recommended to drink a decoction consisting of crushed calamus rhizomes, buckthorn bark, peppermint, nettle leaves, valerian and dandelion. Pour raw materials into a thermos and pour boiling water (2 tbsp collection / 800 ml). After a few hours, the tea is filtered and consumed ½ cup 30 minutes before meals.

How to improve bowel function with diarrhea

Diarrhea indicates disorders electrolyte metabolism and absorption of water in the intestines. The state manifests itself frequent urges to defecation and loose stools. Distinguish acute diarrhea that occurs against the background of infections and intoxications, as well as chronic diarrhea. The tendency to loose stools is due to impaired motility and inflammation of the intestinal walls of various etiologies, pancreatic insufficiency, and also occurs against the background of long-term medication.

The choice of treatment tactics depends on the anamnestic data and the results of laboratory tests. Therapy includes diet, correction of gastric and pancreatic secretion, course treatment antibacterial drugs, restoration of water and electrolyte balance.

Persistent diarrhea contributes to a change acid-base balance in the intestines and dehydration of the body, which leads to fatigue, disruption of the cardiovascular system and a decrease in the quality of life.

Diarrhea medications

For symptomatic treatment, adsorbents are used that envelop and astringents: Enterosgel, Enterosan, Polysorb, Bactistatin. To regulate motility, reduce secretory function and improve absorption, Imodium or Loperamide are indicated.

With diarrhea of infectious genesis, a course of treatment with broad-spectrum antibiotics is carried out, among which are quinolines, sulfonamides, and nitrofuran preparations.

To suppress the growth of pathogenic microflora, improve digestion and stimulate local immunity, probiotics Linex, Bifidumbacterin, Bififrm, Trilakt, etc. are prescribed.

Folk remedies

Rice broth, which has enveloping, astringent and fermentation-preventing properties, will help improve digestion. The use of the product is indicated for pregnant women and children, due to the high nutritional value and safety of the product. Pour 2 tbsp. l. washed cereals with water (500 ml) bring to a boil and simmer for 20-30 minutes. Let cool and strain through a fine sieve or cheesecloth. The finished product is consumed in 100 ml every three hours. For a child, the dosage is reduced to 50 ml.

Dried pomegranate peel has astringents and antiseptic properties, so the decoction quickly stops diarrhea, flatulence and pain syndrome. For cooking, you need a teaspoon of peel crushed in a blender or mortar and a glass of boiling water. The resulting mixture is boiled in a water bath for at least 30 minutes, after which it is allowed to settle and taken 30 ml at least four times a day.

To eliminate diarrhea, blueberries are used, from which jelly and decoction are prepared. Efficiency is due to the presence of pectin and tannins in the berry.

Diet for the intestines

In chronic intestinal atony, the intake of bran of cereals (wheat, oats, rye) is indicated. The product is steamed with boiling water or added to kefir and yogurt. Well proven sea kale, which is consumed several times a day in the form of a salad.

To relieve constipation in daily diet it is recommended to enable boiled beets, buckwheat and pearl barley, oatmeal, as well as fruits and vegetables with great content fiber: sauerkraut, apples, peaches, citrus fruits, carrots, tomatoes and fresh cucumbers. For chronic constipation, it is advisable to use a mixture of figs, prunes, dried apricots, raisins, dates and walnuts with the addition of honey. Dessert is taken half an hour before meals twice a day for 1 tsp.

With diarrhea, food is introduced into the diet with high content pectin: fruit purees, baked apples and pears. To replenish potassium, bananas, dried apricots and boiled potatoes in "uniforms" are shown. Help prevent dehydration and micronutrient loss chicken bouillon, vegetable soups, kissels and compotes.

In case of bowel diseases and a tendency to diarrhea or constipation, fried foods, smoked foods, marinades, carbonated drinks, mushrooms and alcohol should be excluded from the diet.

Acute and chronic diarrhea poses a particular danger to women who are carrying a child. During this period, the risks of intoxication and rapid dehydration are high, which leads not only to feeling unwell future mother but to fetal malformations. Therefore, with diarrhea that is not stopped by home remedies and conventional drugs (Loperamide, Ftalazol, Maalox, Regidron), an immediate visit to the doctor is recommended.

Diarrhea in pregnant women contributes to circulatory disorders, including in the placenta. And with infectious and viral lesions of the intestine, violations of protein metabolism and insufficiency of the secretory function of the pancreas are possible.

Prevention of bowel diseases

Preventive measures are aimed at the formation of correct behavioral and eating habits. A complete cessation of alcohol and smoking is recommended, adherence to the daily regimen and prevention of stressful situations. Unconditional requirements include:

five meals a day, where breakfast in terms of calories is at least 25% of the daily norm;
fruit and vegetable snacks between meals;
compliance drinking regime, which involves drinking at least two liters of water per day;
timely detection and treatment of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and endocrine disorders;
replenishment of the lack of vitamins, minerals, fiber with synthetic and herbal preparations.

To increase muscle tone and stimulate digestion processes, it is necessary to increase motor activity. Swimming, aerobics and hiking increase intestinal peristalsis and have the best effect on the psycho-emotional state.

Constipation or diarrhea indicate inflammatory processes, in the pathogenesis of which functional disorders gastrointestinal tract, infectious lesions, metabolic diseases and autoimmune conditions. Therefore, with frequent or rare acts of defecation, accompanied by bloating, nausea and deterioration of well-being, it is recommended to seek medical help. Identification of the causes of intestinal dysfunction and a well-designed treatment regimen will help prevent complications and restore the quality of life!

How to improve digestion and bowel function? As a rule, this question is asked by people who lead a sedentary lifestyle and are accustomed to an unbalanced diet. But these are far from all the factors that can lead to disturbances in the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. Why can some people eat unhealthy food all the time, but their intestines will work like a clock, while others must take stimulant drugs regularly? Is it all about nutrition or are there other, more serious reasons? You can find answers to these questions in this article.

Violation of the stomach or, as doctors also call it, dyspepsia, is divided into 3 types: fermentative, putrefactive and fatty. With the development fermentative form of dyspepsia the patient worsens the process of digestion of carbohydrate foods. Typically, this phenomenon is due to overuse foods rich in fiber. This leads to the development of fermentation processes, which causes flatulence and rumbling in the stomach.

Putrid dyspepsia accompanied by a deterioration in the digestion of protein foods, which leads to the decomposition of proteins in the large intestine. As a rule, lovers of fast food most often suffer from putrefactive dyspepsia. Poor absorption fat or fatty dyspepsia is much rarer than other species. The disease manifests itself in the form of frequent diarrhea.

On a note! If problems with bowel function appear regularly, this may indicate the development of diseases such as ulcerative colitis, irritable bowel syndrome, chronic enterocolitis, pancreatitis or gastritis. All these diseases are very dangerous for the body, because in case of untimely or improper treatment can lead to serious complications.

The main problems in the digestive system include constipation. They can occur against the background of an unbalanced diet. In this case, you need to adjust your diet to eliminate the problem. But also constipation alternates with diarrhea. Here the diet is no longer enough - a completely different approach is needed. And if people use laxatives or products with a laxative effect in the treatment of constipation, then in the case of diarrhea, taking such medicines is not recommended. It is better to limit the diet to sweet tea and rice water. These products help improve the functioning of the digestive tract.

At flatulence It is not recommended to overload the digestive system with heavy food. In the summer, various vegetables and fruits appear on the tables, but in winter the diet is replenished with cookies, sweets and other junk food. It all pollutes the body, so nutrition should be rational all year round. There are other digestive problems, such as bloating or nausea. AT rare cases The combination of these symptoms indicates the course of serious pathologies.

If suspicious symptoms appear, you should immediately contact a gastroenterologist for help. The right approach to the problem will avoid unpleasant consequences. But if the problem is not serious, then you can deal with it at home.

How to improve bowel function

Stomach upset, bad job bowel and other digestive problems in most cases can be solved on their own, but only after consulting a specialist. First of all, the doctor will advise you to make adjustments to the nutrition plan. There are also many different ways to improve bowel function. These include taking medications and folk remedies, physiotherapy and so on. Let's consider each of these methods separately.

Diet

The first thing to do when you have problems with digestion is to review your diet. Add the following items to the menu:

fresh vegetables and fruits (kiwi, apples, plums, carrots, cucumbers);
fermented milk products (sour cream, cottage cheese, fermented baked milk and yogurt);
pickles, cabbage soup, vegetable soups;
corn, buckwheat, millet and oatmeal;
dried apricots.

Try to limit the amount junk food in the diet. First of all, it concerns:

chocolate
white rice dishes;
candy biscuits and other sweets;
fast food;
semi-finished products;
smoked, pickled, salty and fried foods.

All people are unique, so you need to choose the most suitable diet individually, through trial and error. Make sure that each of the dishes contains at least one product that has a positive effect on bowel function.

Pharmacy preparations

If you have digestive problems, you can use medical method treatment. The drugs can improve the intestinal microflora, eliminate constipation or diarrhea and improve the functioning of the digestive system as a whole. But we must not forget that the attending physician or pharmacist should select medicines. If the condition does not improve after a long course of treatment, then you need to undergo diagnostic examination. The following are effective drugs that stabilize metabolic processes in the body.

Table. Overview of drugs to improve bowel function.

Name of the drug, photo	Description
	An excellent laxative, the active component of which is lactose, a substance that stimulates intestinal peristalsis of the patient. Regular use of the drug promotes natural defecation by normalizing the consistency of feces.
	A laxative drug that has a positive effect on the work of the digestive tract and intestines. The composition of Isabgol includes exclusively natural ingredients, which are obtained as a result of the processing of plantain ovoid. The tool is actively used for violations of the intestines.
	Another medicine, which has anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic and anxiolytic properties. Active ingredients this drug positively affect the work of the intestines, relieve discomfort and inflammation in the intestines.
	Dietary supplement (biologically active additive) used in medicine to support bowel function. The tool has laxative, antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties, due to which it helps to increase the secretion of the digestive glands. The tool begins to act within 8 hours after application.
	The composition of this drug includes metabolic products normal microflora, due to which Hilak forte improves the functioning of the digestive system. The action of the drug is to preserve the functions of the intestinal mucosa and improve its normal microflora.

Important! When problems with the intestines appear, you should not turn a blind eye to them, because this can result in serious consequences. Try to take it all necessary measures to eliminate the need to take potent drugs in the future (follow preventive measures, adjust the diet, and so on).

Another effective way to normalize bowel function is massage. Place your palm in the navel area and begin to massage the stomach in a circular motion. Everything should go smoothly and carefully so as not to provoke pain.

Gradually increase the massaged area so that in the end it occupies almost the entire surface of the abdomen. The duration of the procedure should not exceed 10 minutes. It is necessary to perform 3 massage sessions per day, taking short breaks between them. Each next session should be accompanied by a great effort. It is recommended to do this massage about 30-40 minutes before meals.

Folk remedies

As noted earlier, you can deal with the problems of the digestive system with the help of proven folk remedies. As a rule, they are used as an addition to traditional therapy, but some drugs are not inferior in their effectiveness even to the most expensive pharmacy drugs.

Table. Traditional medicine recipes to improve digestion.

Product name, photo	Application
	This is a unique plant used in traditional medicine in the treatment of various gastroenterological diseases. Regular use of licorice root will help get rid of the symptoms of heartburn, spasmodic contractions of the stomach and the reflux of stomach acid. To do this, you need to prepare tea from licorice. Pour boiling water over a few tablespoons of the crushed plant and leave for 10-15 minutes. After preparation, drink the drink throughout the day, but not more than 3 glasses per day.
	To eliminate swelling and pain in the stomach must be consumed daily essential oil. You can buy ready-made oil in capsules or use fresh leaves plants. Chew several leaves a day to improve the functioning of the stomach and intestines.
	Chamomile is often used medicinally for its medicinal properties. It can also help improve digestion. To do this, prepare tea by pouring 200 ml of boiling water 2 tsp. plants. After the drink is infused, consume it throughout the day. This will eliminate pain and colic in the abdomen, get rid of attacks of nausea and other pathological conditions of the intestine. The recommended dose is 100-300 ml of tea per day.
	Since ancient times, people have used this plant to treat many diseases. Ginger is also a good calorie burner, which has made it popular in the fitness industry. To cope with abdominal pain and improve metabolic processes in the body, you need to consume 2-3 g of ginger daily. You can make tea with ginger by pouring the same amount of the plant with boiling water. For taste, some add a little honey or sugar.
	For improvement digestive processes you need to drink 1 tsp every day. aloe vera juice. The plant contains useful components(amino acids, vitamin C, and so on), which have a positive effect on the digestive system.

Before using any folk remedy it is necessary to consult a doctor. Only after his consent can you start folk therapy.

Prevention measures

You can prevent the occurrence of various problems with digestion and bowel function. It's much easier than doing therapy. It is enough to take the preventive measures that are listed below.

Step 1. Drink enough liquid, that is, at least 8 glasses a day. This will help cleanse the body of harmful toxins that interfere with digestion. Water also softens the stool, making it much easier to pass a bowel movement. If you spend a lot of time on the road, take a bottle of water with you. This does not mean that you need a 5-liter canister that is uncomfortable to carry. A small liter bottle will be enough to replenish the water balance. Drink plenty of water while doing active sports. The fact is that during training, the human body loses a lot of fluid, the reserves of which need to be replenished.

The fact that you are drinking enough fluids, you can tell by the color of your urine - it will be transparent throughout the day. Depending on the degree of dehydration, urine may become more yellow. As a supplement, you can eat fruits that contain a lot of water (tomatoes, cucumbers, asparagus, peaches).

Step 2 Set aside some time for sports every day. Active physical activity will not only rid the body of excess gases, but also bring the body into tone. Even devoting 8-12 minutes of time to active movements, you can stimulate the digestive system. Physical activity accelerates metabolism, improves blood circulation and stimulates intestinal muscle tone.

Step 3 Lose weight if necessary. Obesity can lead to the fact that, as a result of increased pressure on abdominal cavity the gastric valve will not close correctly. With this violation, heartburn often occurs. Try to reduce the pressure exerted on the abdomen as much as possible by losing weight. With the right approach, you can achieve the desired result safely and quickly enough.

eat fractionally;
30 minutes before meals, drink 100 ml of warm water;
do not overeat;
The last meal should be 3-4 hours before going to bed.

Proper regimen combined with diet and regular physical activity is the key to success.

Step 4 Do not rush while eating, eat slowly. This will avoid ingestion. a large number air along with food, which in turn can lead to discomfort in the abdomen. Also, when eating food quickly, a person often overeats, which causes increased pressure in the stomach, which significantly impairs the functioning of the digestive system.

Each piece must be chewed thoroughly so that the stomach can prepare well for eating. This time is also necessary for the brain to be able to determine that the body is already full and there is no need to eat more. Many people usually watch TV or read interesting book while eating, but such habits lead to overeating, because a person eats much more food if he is distracted by something.

Step 5 Give up bad habits. As an experiment, try cutting out coffee, cigarettes, alcohol, and sugary snacks for at least a week. This will allow your digestive tract to recover and restore the natural microflora. It will also have a positive effect on other body systems, and limiting the amount of sweets in the diet will allow you to get rid of a few extra pounds.

Step 6 Before using this or that drug, be sure to read the instructions from the manufacturer. If some problems with the digestive system are indicated as a side effect, for example, nausea or heartburn, then you need to find a good replacement for this drug. Ask your doctor to choose effective analogue. But remember that only a qualified specialist can prescribe drugs.