The digestive system is a 25- to 35-foot-long hoselike structure. It receives
food at one end, breaks it down into nutrients (a process called digestion), and absorbs the
nutrients into the bloodstream for delivery to the cells. The indigestible parts of food are
eliminated from the body. The eliminatory system helps maintain water and chemical balance and
removes excess fluid and waste from the body. The primary structures of these systems are the mouth,
esophagus, stomach, small and large intestines (colon), kidneys, bladder, and anus.
Digestive disorders are a major source of lost time. We all are familiar with
such inconveniences as constipation, diarrhea, heartburn, urinary tract infections, flatulence, and
upset stomachs. Digestive disorders also account for such serious problems as hepatitis, jaundice,
cirrhosis, diverticular disease, and cancers of the digestive system. Anyone who suffers from
digestive problems knows how horrible they can make life.
Diet is often the main culprit. We eat too much processed food and sugar, and not
enough fiber, fruits, and vegetables. This alone can result in constipation. Poor eating habits,
such as eating too quickly and "grazing" our food, are also part of the problem. In addition,
parasites are a largely unknown but major problem. Other risk factors are lack of exercise,
effects of prescription and over-the-counter drugs, smoking, stress, and alcohol.
