The intestinal wall, as has been discussed in previous posts, is composed of intestinal epithelium forming a semipermeable barrier preventing entry of pathogens and blocking contact with constituents of the immune system.1 Ultimately, such a system facilitates normal digestion/absorption, immune function, and overall homeostasis. However, disruption to the intestinal barrier can induce unfavorable changes to […]
Read MoreAs discussed in previous posts, the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) is an approximate 16-foot long organ system; a gateway facilitating immune function and entry of key macronutrients and micronutrients into the inner systems of the human body.1Approximately 30% of total daily caloric intake is devoted to the GIT in addition to a unique and independently working […]
Read MoreSmall intestinal fungal overgrowth (SIFO) is a condition defined by an excessive concentration of fungal microorganisms inhabiting the small intestine (SI). Such a condition is often found amongst immunocompromised individuals or those who use antibiotics with symptoms ranging from belching, indigestion, bloating, diarrhea (leading to nutrient deficiencies), nausea, and gas (Erdogan & Rao, 2015). However, […]
Read MoreSmall intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO) is characterized by an overpopulation (in excess of 105– 106) of bacteria in the small intestine and stomach (Khalighi et al., 2014; Nabanan & Fauzi, 2015). Several urinary organic acid biomarkers are available which help determine the presence and overpopulation of such bacterial species. Such knowledge is critical as it […]
Read MoreFat is a macronutrient necessary for several key physiological roles in the body. Specifically, fatty acids (carbon bonds ranging from 4-24 with a carboxyl group) which form fats, is a large energy source and provider of cell membrane constituents (Calder, 2015; Lord & Bralley, 2012). Fatty acids (FAs) also have biological roles that include tissue […]
Read MoreDigestion and absorption processes occurs along the entirety of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) and demands participation of several physiological and biochemical events at each segment. In my last posts, I considered optimal functioning of accessory organs (i.e., liver, pancreas), their secretions, optimal acidity, as well as intestinal lining and its relationship to immune health and […]
Read MoreThe gastrointestinal tract (GIT) is an estimated 16-foot long system, which includes the upper digestive tract (esophagus, oral cavity, stomach) in addition to the lower digestive tract (small and large intestine) and accessory organs (liver, gallbladder, pancreas) (Gropper, Smith, & Carr, 2018). Such a system serves as a semipermeable gateway connecting the outside environment to […]
Read MoreGastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a common condition affecting as much as 48% of Westernized countries (Ebrahimi-Mameghani, Sabour, Khoshbaten, Arefhosseini, & Saghafi-Asl, 2017). Such a health problem, left unmanaged, can lead to and produce other conditions such as gastrointestinal bleeding and esophageal stricture (narrowing). Thus, detection and management of said condition is paramount. As a […]
Read MoreIn this author’s last post, low stomach acidity (high pH), micronutrient maldigestion/malabsorption, causes/symptoms of high pH, and solutions to mitigate such conditions were considered. However, low stomach acidity can induce systemic affects where other physiological disruptions occur along the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, to include gut dysbiosis (Pizzorno & Katzinger, 2012). As such, the following will […]
Read MoreOptimal gastrointestinal (GI) digestion and absorption processes are essential in providing cells and tissues with usable forms of micronutrients. When functioning properly, the GI tract participates in maintaining and protecting health, performance, and longevity. However, when dysregulated, such a system can negatively affect homeostasis. One pathophysiological manifestation of the GI tract, known as hypochlorhydria (low […]
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