Copyright Redland Reflexology

Here are brief overview descriptions based on general knowledge of the various items listed on your Body Frequency Analyser/Optimiser Body Chemistry Report. Note they have not been checked for accuracy. Mistakes can happen so please double-check any important information.

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Gastrointestinal Functions 1/Digestive Functions

1. **Colon Peristalsis Function**: Colon peristalsis refers to the rhythmic contractions of the muscles in the colon that help move waste material through the large intestine toward the rectum for excretion. This movement is essential for efficient digestion and waste elimination.

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2. **Colon Absorption**: In the colon, water and electrolytes such as sodium and chloride are absorbed from the remaining indigestible food matter. This process helps to form and compact feces, which is then eliminated from the body.

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3. **Gastric Absorption**: Gastric absorption refers to the limited absorption that occurs in the stomach. While the stomach is primarily involved in the breakdown of food, it does absorb certain substances such as water, alcohol, and some medications.

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4. **Gastric Peristalsis**: Gastric peristalsis is the series of muscle contractions that occur in the stomach to mix and propel food through the digestive tract. These contractions help break down food and mix it with gastric juices for digestion.

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5. **Hydrochloric Acid (HCl) Production**: Hydrochloric acid is produced by the parietal cells in the stomach lining. It plays a crucial role in digestion by creating an acidic environment that helps break down food, activate pepsinogen into pepsin, and kill harmful bacteria.

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6. **Intestinal Bacteria**: Intestinal bacteria, also known as gut microbiota, are a diverse community of microorganisms that inhabit the gastrointestinal tract. They play a vital role in digestion, immune function, and the synthesis of certain vitamins and nutrients.

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7. **Intraluminal Pressure**: Intraluminal pressure refers to the pressure within the lumen (interior) of the gastrointestinal tract. Proper regulation of this pressure is important for the efficient movement of food and waste through the digestive system.

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8. **Pepsin Secretion**: Pepsin is a digestive enzyme secreted by the chief cells of the stomach in the form of pepsinogen. Once activated by hydrochloric acid, pepsin breaks down proteins into smaller peptides for absorption.

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9. **Small Intestine Nutrient Absorption**: The small intestine is the primary site for nutrient absorption in the digestive tract. It absorbs a wide variety of nutrients, including carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals, through its highly specialized lining.

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10. **Small Intestine Peristalsis**: Small intestine peristalsis involves the coordinated contractions of the smooth muscles in the small intestine. These contractions propel food along the length of the small intestine, aiding in digestion and nutrient absorption.