Republic of the Philippines

Cebu Normal University

COLLEGE OF TEACHER EDUCATION
Osmeña Boulevard, Cebu City 6000 Philippines

THE CHRONICLES OF DIGESTIVE SYSTEM

By: Maricar Doydora, Shaina Lijane Endab, Jammel Joyce Ensalada, Kit Caritero and Sheena Mae Capili
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1.0 Description of the Body System

The digestive system is a group of organs working together to convert food into energy and basic nutrients to feed the entire
body. Also called alimentary system.

2.0 Function of the Body System

The system by which ingested food is acted upon by physical and chemical means to provide the body with absorbable nutrients
and to excrete waste products.

3.0 Constituent Organs and Their Functions

Mouth – breaks down food into small pieces and mixes with a saliva
Esophagus – muscular tube down which food travels from the mouth to the stomach
Stomach – secretes juices that get digestion under way
Liver – produces bile and processes nutrients obtained from food
Gall bladder – stores bile
Pancreas – secretes enzymes into the small intestine
Small intestine – is the main site where the food is digested
Large intestine – absorbs water from digestive waste
Rectum – stores the waste until it leaves the body through the anus
Anus – solid waste passes from the body

4.0 Taking Good Care of the Body System

1. Eat a high-fiber diet. A high-fiber diet helps to keep food moving through your digestive tract, making you less likely to get
constipated, adding that a high-fiber diet can also help you prevent or treat various digestive conditions, such as diverticulosis,
hemorrhoids, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). In addition, it can help you achieve or maintain a healthy weight.
2. Get both insoluble and soluble fiber. It's important to consume both types of fiber, since they help your digestive system
in different ways. "Insoluble fiber, also known as roughage, can't be digested by the body and therefore helps add bulk to the
stools," says Adams. "Soluble fiber draws in water and can help prevent stools that are too watery." Good sources of insoluble
fiber include wheat bran, vegetables, and whole grains; get soluble fiber from oat bran, nuts, seeds, and legumes.
3. Limit foods that are high in fat. "In general, fatty foods tend to slow down the digestive process, making you more prone to
constipation," says Adams. But since it's important to get some fat in your diet, Adams says that pairing fatty foods with high-
fiber foods can make them easier on your digestive system.
4. Choose lean meats. Protein is an essential part of a healthful diet, but fatty cuts of meat can lead to uncomfortable digestion.
When you eat meat, select lean cuts, such as pork loin and skinless poultry.
5. Incorporate probiotics into your diet. Probiotics are the same kind of healthy bacteria naturally present in your digestive
tract. "They help keep the body healthy by combating the effects of a poor diet, antibiotics, and stress," says Adams. In addition,
probiotics can enhance nutrient absorption, may help break down lactose, strengthen your immune system, and possibly even
help treat IBS. Adams recommends that people eat good sources of probiotics, such as low-fat yogurt or kefir, on a daily basis.
6. Eat on schedule. Adams says that consuming your meals and snacks on a regular schedule can help keep your digestive
system in top shape. Aim to sit down for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks around the same time each day.
 7. Stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of water is good for your digestive health, according to Adams. Fiber pulls water into the colon
to create softer, bulkier stools, allowing them to pass through more easily.
8. Skip the bad habits: smoking, excessive caffeine, and alcohol. Liquor, coffee, and cigarettes can interfere with the
functioning of your digestive system, and lead to problems like stomach ulcers and heartburn.
9. Exercise regularly. "Regular exercise helps keep foods moving through your digestive system, reducing constipation," says
Adams. Exercise can also help you maintain a healthy weight, which is good for your digestive health. Make it a point to work
regular exercise into your weekly schedule.
10. Manage stress. Too much stress or anxiety can cause your digestive system to go into overdrive, according to Adams. Find
stress-reducing activities that you enjoy and practice them on a regular basis.

5.0 Common Ailments and Diseases

1. Diarrhea – it is the discharge of watery wastes. It may be mild or serious. The intestine contract more frequently and
produces extra mucus. The waste are forced out so fast that much water is not reabsorbed. The result is water waste.
2. Constipation – it is a difficult bowel movement. Some young people suffer from this ailment due to lack of fibers in
their diet. Fiber stimulate muscular activity making it easy for the wastes to reach the anus. Older people usually
experience constipation because the muscles of the digestive system have lost their strength to squeeze and move
wastes.
3. Hemorrhoids – This occur when bowel movement is difficult. The rectum is abnormally stretched causing its veins to
enlarge. Rectal suppository is usually recommended. The suppository induces bowel movement.
4. Heartburn –It is pain on one’s chest. It occurs when acidic digestive juices from the stomach moves up the esophagus.
The juice irritates the esophagus and causes pain.
5. Gastrointestinal gas – is another common ailment. This may be caused by a change of diet, drinking or eating too
fast. Some kinds of food can contribute to the production of gas. These foods contain carbohydrates and protein that
cannot be completely digested.
6. Appendicitis – it is the infection that occurs in the appendix. This condition is caused by the microorganisms living in
this tiny part of the body. The infection may be cured by drugs or by the surgical removal of the appendix.
7. Ulcer – affects the stomach or the intestines. It is a sore in the stomach or intestinal wall. It is caused by over secretion
in digestive chemicals in these organs.

6.0 First Aid Procedures to Common Emergencies and Attacks

Homemade remedies for acidity Diarrhea
1. Boil a few basil leaves in a cup of water 1. Take Fluids
2. Strain the solution 2. Rest
3. Sweeten with some honey 3. Ease into eating
4. Sip it frequently 4. Call the doctor

7.0 References
https://www.everydayhealth.com/digestive-health/tips-for-better-digestive-health/
http://www.innerbody.com/image/digeov.html
https://www.medicinenet.com/the_digestion_process_organs_and_functions/article.htm