What Causes Indigestion?
Gastroenterology

What Causes Indigestion?

    What Causes Indigestion?

     

    What causes indigestion? Find out here!

     

    Indigestion is an uncomfortable feeling in the stomach that occurs when food moves through the digestive system too slowly. It can also occur when there is a blockage somewhere along the way.

     

    The Stomach Is Not Designed To Digest Food

    The human body was not designed to digest food. Our bodies were made to break down food into nutrients that our cells can use. This process takes place in the small intestine. The stomach is where we store food until it is ready to move on to the next part of digestion.

     

    The Stomach Has Three Parts: Upper, Middle, And Lower

    The upper portion of the stomach is called the fundus. It is located at the top of the abdomen just below the diaphragm. The middle portion of the stomach is known as the corpus. It is located between the esophagus and the duodenum. The lower portion of the stomach is the antrum. It is located between two folds of tissue called the lesser and greater curvature of the stomach.

     

    The Stomach Contains Four Types Of Cells: Epithelial, Goblet, Muscle, And Serous

    The four main cell types found in the stomach are epithelial cells, goblet cells, muscle cells, and serous cells. These cells line the walls of the stomach and help digest food. They also secrete mucus, which helps protect the stomach lining against acid damage.

     

    The Stomach Produces A Fluid Called Gastric Juice Which Helps Break Down Food Into Smaller Pieces

    The stomach produces a fluid called gastric juice which helps break down food into smaller pieces. This process begins when the stomach receives signals from the brain telling it to start producing gastric juices. Once the stomach has produced enough gastric juice, it sends a signal to the pancreas to begin releasing digestive enzymes into the small intestine.

     

    When You Eat Too Much Fat, Sugar, Or Salt, This Can Cause Gas

    If you eat too much fat, sugar, or salt, then your body will produce more gas than usual. This happens because these foods cause the production of excess amounts of hydrogen ions (H+) in the intestines. These H+ ions react with water molecules to form carbon dioxide and methane gases.

    The content of the page is for informational purposes only, please consult your doctor for diagnosis and treatment.