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Why Is the Digestive System Important & How Does It Work?
Gut Health

Why Is the Digestive System Important & How Does It Work?

Scott Patterson -

Did you know your digestive system provides 95% of the serotonin to your brain? Your learning, memory, happiness, body temperature, and sleep all depend on this neurotransmitter. 

Today, it’s becoming more understood that the health of your digestive system can significantly impact both your mental and physical well-being. So, it’s increasingly important to discover how your digestive system works and how you can help it flourish.

Let’s explore the key roles of the digestive system, review some common issues that can impact your gut health, and reveal some tips to help you keep your digestive system running smoothly. 

Primary functions of the digestive system

The digestive system is responsible for performing three main functions: breaking down food, absorbing the nutrients the body needs, and eliminating excess waste. Here’s a deeper look at the step-by-step process:

  • Breaking down food: The digestive process begins as soon as someone begins eating. The saliva mixes with the chewed food, causing it to start breaking down before it’s swallowed. Once it enters the stomach, acids and enzymes begin to digest proteins and churn the food into a semi-liquid substance called chyme.
  • Absorbing nutrients: Next, the chyme goes through the small intestine, which is the most important area for digesting and absorbing food. Enzymes from the pancreas and bile from the liver further digest the food, while the villi and microvilli (structures in the small intestine) absorb nutrients. Leftover food enters the large intestine, which absorbs water and electrolytes to turn liquid waste into solid stool.
  • Eliminating waste: The large intestine compacts the solid waste into feces, which are then eliminated from the body during a bowel movement.
  • Key benefits of healthy digestion

    It’s difficult to overstate the importance of the digestive system. When it’s operating properly, it can fuel a healthier and happier lifestyle. For instance, here are just a few key areas that digestive health can impact:

  • Energy levels: Healthy digestion ensures that glucose and other vital nutrients are fully absorbed by the body’s cells. When the body is properly fueled, energy levels increase and people can do what they love.
  • Immune system function: A significant part of the immune system is located in the digestive system, which protects the body from pathogens. 
  • Mental well-being: Proper digestion ensures that there are plenty of nutrients to fuel all bodily functions, which includes mental health and mood. 
  • Impacts of common digestive issues

    Healthy digestive system function is paramount to overall health and well-being. Any issues within the digestive system can cause a range of unpleasant symptoms, and even diseases if left untreated. For instance, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) are two fairly common problems that can impact nutrient absorption and cause physical discomfort after eating, causing sufferers to feel chronically fatigued and unwell. 

    However, even minor digestive problems, such as constipation, heartburn, and diarrhea can cause pain and lead people to avoid eating certain foods that they fear might trigger a reaction. The constant worry can make some people cut out entire food groups, causing even more nutrient deficiencies.

    Colostrum: a promising solution for digestive health

    Colostrum is the first milk that’s produced after giving birth. This milk is often produced in excess and can be ethically sourced from cows. It’s rich in minerals, vitamins, and other essential nutrients that help newborns begin growing and developing. When colostrum powder or colostrum gummies are consumed, there are several notable benefits. For instance, colostrum supplements may help promote the repair and growth of the gut lining, and it can help enhance the immune response, which can reduce inflammation and protect against infection. 

    Key tips for maintaining your digestive system

    We want to emphasize that, although digestive supplements can be helpful in optimizing your gut health, it’s essential to support your digestive system through your daily lifestyle choices, too. To gain the most benefit from colostrum supplements, it’s strongly recommended to:

    • Eat a balanced diet. Focus on eating plenty of fiber-rich foods, lean proteins, and healthy fats. It’s also a good idea to include probiotics and prebiotics to support gut flora.
    • Exercise regularly. Physical activity promotes healthy digestion by increasing blood flow to digestive organs. In other words, getting moving can help get things moving!
    • Stay hydrated. Water is essential for all bodily functions, especially when it comes to digesting food and absorbing nutrients. This will also help prevent constipation.

    Final thoughts

    If you’re searching for ways to boost your immune health and soothe common digestive issues, making a few lifestyle changes and adding colostrum supplements may get you on the right path toward a healthier you. We understand that digestive system function is fundamental to our health and well-being, and it’s our goal to help others on their journey to a more balanced life. 

    If you are wondering if colostrum is suitable for adults or if these supplements are right for you, we encourage you to reach out to one of our team members today. We’re here to support you and help you find the right solutions for your personal health goals. 


    To learn more about our colostrum supplements or place an order, please visit our shop today. 


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