Did you know that you have your own private “car wash” happening inside your body? This wash takes place in the first and smallest part of the small intestine called the duodenum (DUO-DEN-UM).
Food empties from the stomach into the duodenum as chyme (mashed food). The duodenum is where the digestion really starts. It acts like the car wash of the body. Chemical juices from the pancreas and gallbladder wash the chyme to neutralize stomach acids and break down fats. The duodenum likes to absorb calcium and iron as well. The hunger hormone, Ghrelin, is secreted primarily in the stomach, but the duodenum is also a major source of Ghrelin.
Why is this so important?
Ghrelin is what tells your brain whether you are hungry or full. As the stomach empties, the secretion of the hormone increases and conversely, as your stomach fills, Ghrelin decreases. The is why you really must listen to those brain messages. This hormone reaches a low at about 30-60 minutes after eating so you will not feel satiated for a while. Eat slowly and mindfully. Let your body catch up before you decide you need more. In other words, set the fork down. You might not need that second serving.
Have you struggled with pain shortly after eating or experiencing indigestion? So, have many of our patients at Equilibrium Physical Therapy. That is why emphasis needs to be placed on treating the small intestines with care.
If you are having trouble with discomfort due to digestion, please contact me, Erin Lamb. You don’t have to live like that. You can expect better.
LEARN MORE THROUGH OUR OTHER “MEET YOUR BODY” ARTICLES. MEET YOUR BODY INTRO