Lifestyles and their Close Relationship with Gastrointestinal Diseases (Part I: Diet)

Abstract

The gastrointestinal tract (GI) is a continuous hollow twisting tube from the mouth to the anus. Its hollow organs include the mouth, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine, and anus. The liver, pancreas, and gallbladder (solid organs) are also considered part of the GI tract. The principal functions of the GI tract are digestion, absorption, excretion, and protection. Digestion and absorption occur primarily in the stomach and small intestine. Desiccation and compaction of waste occur in the large intestine. The waste products are then stored in the sigmoid colon and rectum before their elimination. The GI tract is influenced by several lifestyles, including the amount and the composition of the diet. The macronutrients and micronutrients in the diet, if prudent, are important for maintaining good GI health. However, unhealthy choices may cause or influence the development of GI pathology (such as esophageal reflux, peptic ulcer, inflammatory bowel disease, dietary intolerance, or even GI cancers). The lifestyle GI connection is reviewed in this two-part manuscript.