The Vital GI Tract

The digestive functions of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract are vital to life. Foods must be broken down to simple molecules that can be utilized by the body’s cells and tissues. Solid food is processed in the mouth (mastication and maceration), then passed on to the stomach for further treatment by acids, enzymes and mechanical mixing. The final phases of digestion take place in the intestines. Various enzymes in the small intestine break down carbohydrates to monosaccharides, fats to fatty acids and glycerol, and proteins to amino acids. These molecules can then be absorbed into the bloodstream. Most nutrients are absorbed in the small intestine, although some molecules, such as alcohol and some drugs (aspirin, for example), can be taken up from the stomach, and others (e.g., electrolytes, some vitamins) can be absorbed in the large intestine.

The GI tract contains approximately 70% of our immune system. For example, the gut-associated lymphoid tissues (GALT), which include the appendix and Peyer’s patches, contain more lymphocytes than all of the secondary lymphoid organs combined (spleen, lymph nodes, other mucosa-associated lymphoid tissues). This makes sense because the mouth is the major portal through which foreign objects (food, water, microbes, toxins, etc.) enter the body, and the way the GI system deals with is a major determinant of our health status. Nutrients and other benign substances must be recognized as molecules that do not necessitate an immune response. Bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa, etc., must be identified as either “friendly” or “unfriendly” and dealt with accordingly. Because of the overwhelming population of microbes in the GI tract, the immune system must learn early on what is normal and what is not. This necessitates early establishment of normal, healthful microbial populations.

Today, a growing appreciation of the importance of a healthy population of intestinal microbes and the health benefits provided by certain species has spurred interest in the consumption of probiotics, particularly those that contain lactobacilli and bifidobacteria.

For consumers looking to live healthier and nutritionally enriched lives, Mannatech Inc. offer hope. Based in Coppell, Texas, Mannatech sells more than 24 proprietary and scientifically validated glyconutritional supplements and products for adults and children that address health and wellness issues, weight management and skin care.