The intestinal flora changes and we drink too little
Old age comes with flaws, and when it comes to digestion, it’s no different. Many people over the age of 50 go to the doctor with digestive problems. Why do these kinds of complaints arise with age?
Our digestive system is an ingenious system that runs from mouth to anus and allows food to be broken down into nutrients that the body can absorb and use. But with age, digestive problems often arise.
Small intestine
Food first enters the small intestine through the mouth, esophagus, and stomach. The most important part of digestion takes place in the small intestine. The nutrients released during this process are absorbed into our body via the small intestinal wall.
Colon
The indigestible food remains are processed in the large intestine by intestinal bacteria. Many intestinal bacteria live in our body, in an adult about 1 – 1.5 kilograms. We count about four hundred to six hundred species, most of which are (still) unknown. The best-known good bacteria in the large intestine are Clostridum, Streptococcus, Bifidobacteria and Enterobacteria.
After processing, the food remains are temporarily stored in the rectum and finally leave the body as stool. About 80 percent of our bowel movements take place in the large intestine.
Become older
Like other muscles, the muscles and organs involved in digestion weaken as we age. But that is not the only cause of digestive complaints. The elderly also often use more medicines and exercise less. In addition, a reduced resistance and reduced intestinal peristalsis can also play a role.
Dehydration
Dehydration means lack of moisture. Dehydration can negatively affect digestion. As we age, the percentage of fluid in our body decreases. In addition, the feeling of thirst also decreases. In addition, the bladder is somewhat weaker and less is drunk so as not to have to go to the toilet all the time. Drinking enough water can therefore already provide a lot of relief.
Composition of intestinal flora
During aging, the composition of the intestinal flora also changes. In general, the amount of bifidobacteria decreases, creating space for unfavorable bacteria and fungi.
Due to this altered intestinal flora, putrefactive processes in the intestine also have a greater chance, resulting in digestive complaints. It can therefore help support the intestinal flora with probiotics, which are available in various forms. In addition, there are of course various tips to keep digestion smooth.
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