The composition of the microflora of the large intestine. Functions of the microflora of the large intestine

Detailed composition intestinal microflora is listed in Appendix 1.

All intestinal microflora is divided into: - obligate (main microflora); - optional part (conditionally pathogenic and saprophytic microflora); obligate microflora.

Bifidobacteria are the most significant representatives of obligate bacteria in the intestines of children and adults. These are anaerobes, they do not form spores and morphologically are large gram-positive rods of an even or slightly curved shape. The ends of the rods in most bifidobacteria are forked, but can also be thinned or thickened in the form of spherical swellings.

Most of the population of bifidobacteria is located in the large intestine, being its main parietal and luminal microflora. Bifidobacteria are present in the intestines throughout a person's life, in children they make up from 90 to 98% of all intestinal microorganisms, depending on age.

The dominant position in the microbial landscape of the intestine in healthy newborns who are breastfed, bifidoflora begins to occupy by the 5-20th day after birth. Among various kinds bifidobacteria in children on breastfeeding, dominated by Bifidobacterium bifidum.

The following functions of bifidobacteria are distinguished:

By association with the intestinal mucosa, the physiological protection of the intestinal barrier from the penetration of microbes and toxins into the internal environment of the body is carried out; - have a high antagonistic activity against pathogenic and conditionally pathogenic microorganisms due to the production of organic fatty acids; - participate in the utilization of food substrates and activation of parietal digestion; - synthesize amino acids and proteins, vitamin K, pantothenic acid, B vitamins: B1 - thiamine, B2 - riboflavin, B3 - nicotinic acid, Vs - folic acid, B6 - pyridoxine, - contribute to the enhancement of absorption processes of calcium and iron ions through the intestinal walls , vitamin D. Another representative of the obligate microflora of the gastrointestinal tract are lactobacilli, which are gram-positive rods with pronounced polymorphism, located in chains or singly, non-spore-forming. Lactoflora inhabits the body of a newborn child in the early postnatal period. The habitat of lactobacilli is the various parts of the gastrointestinal tract, from the oral cavity to the large intestine.

Lactobacilli in the process of life enter into a complex interaction with other microorganisms, as a result of which putrefactive and pyogenic conditionally pathogenic microorganisms, primarily proteas, as well as pathogens of acute diseases, are suppressed. intestinal infections.

In the process of normal metabolism, they are able to form lactic acid, hydrogen peroxide, produce lysozyme, and other substances with antibiotic activity: reuterin, plantaricin, lactocidin, lactolin. In the stomach and small intestine, lactobacilli, in cooperation with the host organism, are the main microbiological link in the formation of colonization resistance. Along with bifido- and lactobacilli, a group of normal acid-formers, i.e. bacteria that produce organic acids are anaerobic propionobacteria. By lowering the pH environment, propionobacteria exhibit antagonistic properties against pathogenic and conditionally pathogenic bacteria. Representatives of the obligate intestinal microflora also include Escherichia (E. coli).

The ecological niche in a healthy body is the large intestine and the distal small intestine. It was revealed that Escherichia contribute to the hydrolysis of lactose; participate in the production of vitamins, primarily vitamin K, group B; produce colicins - antibiotic-like substances that inhibit the growth of enteropathogenic coli; stimulate antibody production. Bacteroides are anaerobic non-spore-forming microorganisms. Their level in the large intestine ranges from 107 to 1011 CFU/g of faeces. The role of bacteroids has not been fully elucidated, but it has been established that they take part in digestion, break down bile acids, and participate in lipid metabolism. Peptostreptococci are non-fermentative Gram-positive anaerobic streptococci involved in the proteolysis of milk proteins and the fermentation of carbohydrates. They do not have hemolytic properties.

Enterococci carry out a fermentative-type metabolism, ferment a variety of carbohydrates with the formation of mainly lactic acid, but not gas. In some cases, nitrate is reduced, usually lactose is fermented.

Facultative intestinal microflora is represented by peptococci, staphylococci, streptococci, bacilli, yeast and yeast-like fungi. Peptococci (anaerobic cocci) metabolize peptone and amino acids to form fatty acids, produce hydrogen sulfide, acetic, lactic, citric, isovaleric and other acids. Staphylococci - non-hemolytic (epidermal, saprophytic) - are included in the group of saprophytic microflora that enters the body from environmental objects. Usually reduce nitrate to nitrite

Streptococci are found in the intestines healthy person in the amount of 104 - 105 CFU / g of feces. Among them are such non-pathogenic strains as lactic acid streptococcus. Non-pathogenic intestinal streptococci have antagonistic activity against pathogens. Streptococci form mainly lactate, but not gas. Bacilli in the intestine can be represented by aerobic and anaerobic species of microorganisms. From carbohydrates or peptone, they form a mixture of organic acids and alcohols. Yeast and some yeast-like fungi are classified as saprophytic microflora. Yeast-like fungi of the genus Candida, most often C.albicans and C.steleatoidea, are conditionally pathogenic microorganisms. They can be found in all abdominal organs of the digestive system and the vulvovaginal region. Conditionally pathogenic enterobacteria include representatives of the Enterobacteriacae (intestinal bacteria) family: Klebsiella, Proteus, Citrobacter, Enterobacter, Serration, etc. Fusobacteria are Gram-negative, non-spore-forming, polymorphic rod-shaped bacteria, representatives of the anaerobic microflora of the large intestine. Their significance in microbiocenosis has not been studied enough. Non-fermenting gram-negative rods are most often detected as transient microflora, because Bacteria of this group are free-living and easily enter the intestine from the environment.

Summarizing all of the above, we can distinguish the following functions of the microflora of the large intestine:

Protective - normal microflora suppresses foreign microflora, which regularly (with food and water) enters the gastrointestinal tract (since it is an open system)

Enzymatic - normal microflora is able to digest proteins and carbohydrates. Proteins (that have not been digested in the upper gastrointestinal tract) are digested in the caecum, a process of putrefaction that produces gases that stimulate colonic motility, causing stool

The synthesis of vitamins is carried out mainly in the caecum, where they are absorbed. Normal microflora provides the synthesis of all B vitamins, a significant part nicotinic acid(up to 75% of the daily requirement of the body in it) and other vitamins.

Synthesis of a number of amino acids and proteins (especially when they are deficient).

Participation in the metabolism of microelements - bifidobacteria contribute to increased absorption of calcium, iron ions (as well as vitamin D) through the intestinal walls.

Detoxification of xenobiotics (neutralization of toxic substances) is an important physiological function intestinal microflora, as a result of its bochemical activity (biotransformation of xenobiotics with the formation of non-toxic products and their subsequent accelerated excretion from the body, as well as their inactivation and biosorption).

Immunizing effect - normal microflora stimulates the synthesis of antibodies, complement; in children - contributes to the maturation and formation of the immune system.

The multifunctionality of normal microflora determines the importance of maintaining its stable composition.

body cleansing and proper nutrition Gennady Petrovich Malakhov

The role of microflora in the large intestine

Let's take a closer look at the activities of microorganisms that live in the large intestine.

More than 400–500 different types of bacteria live here. According to scientists, in 1 g of their bowel movements, on average, there are 30-40 billion! A natural question arises: why are there so many of them?

It turns out that the normal microflora of the large intestine not only participates in the final link of the digestive processes and has a protective function in the intestine, but also produces a number of important vitamins, amino acids, enzymes, hormones and other nutrients from dietary fibers (cellulose, pectin and other plant material that is not digestible by the body). substances. Under conditions of a normally functioning intestine, it is able to suppress and destroy a wide variety of pathogenic and putrefactive microbes.

The waste products of microbes have a regulatory effect on the autonomic nervous system, and also stimulate the immune system.

For the normal functioning of microorganisms, a certain environment is necessary - a slightly acidic environment and dietary fiber. In most of the intestines of normally eating people, conditions in the large intestine are far from desirable.

Rotting feces create an alkaline environment. And this environment already contributes to the growth of pathogenic microflora.

Escherichia coli synthesize B vitamins, which play a role technical supervision, preventing uncontrolled tissue growth, supporting immunity, that is, providing anti-cancer protection.

Doctor was right Gerzon, stating that cancer is Nature's revenge for improperly eaten food. In his book Cancer Treatment, he says that out of 10,000 cases of cancer, 9,999 are the result of poisoning with one's own feces and only one case is the result of truly irreversible changes in the body of a degenerative nature.

The mold formed during the decay of food contributes to the development of a serious pathology in the body. By cleansing the colon and liver, you will be convinced of the correctness of the above, you will see the mold that has come out of you in the form of black shreds!

An external sign of mold formation in the body and the degeneration of the mucous membranes of the large intestine, as well as vitamin A deficiency, is the formation of black plaque on the teeth. When putting things in order in the large intestine and sufficient supply of the body with vitamin A (carotene), this plaque will disappear.

From the book Conversations of a Children's Doctor author Ada Mikhailovna Timofeeva

author Gennady Petrovich Malakhov

From the book Body Cleansing and Proper Nutrition author Gennady Petrovich Malakhov

author Gennady Petrovich Malakhov

From the book The Complete Encyclopedia of Wellness author Gennady Petrovich Malakhov

From the book Golden Rules of Nutrition author Gennady Petrovich Malakhov

From the book My personal methods of recovery author Gennady Petrovich Malakhov

author Gennady Petrovich Malakhov

From the book Body Cleansing and Health: modern approach author Gennady Petrovich Malakhov

The bacterial flora of the gastrointestinal tract is a necessary condition for the normal existence of the organism. The number of microorganisms in the stomach is minimal, in the small intestine there are much more of them (especially in its distal section). The number of microorganisms in the large intestine is exceptionally high - up to tens of billions per 1 kg of contents.

In the human large intestine, 90% of the entire flora is made up of non-spore obligate anaerobic bacteria Bifidum bacterium, Bacteroides. The remaining 10% are lactic acid bacteria, E. coli, streptococci and spore-bearing anaerobes.

The positive value of the intestinal microflora consists in the final decomposition of residues undigested food and components of digestive secrets, creation of an immune barrier, inhibition of pathogenic microbes, synthesis of certain vitamins, enzymes and other physiologically active substances participation in the body's metabolism.

Bacterial enzymes break down fiber fibers that are not digested in the small intestine. Hydrolysis products are absorbed in the large intestine and used by the body. In different people, the amount of cellulose hydrolyzed by bacterial enzymes is not the same and averages about 40%.

Digestive secrets, having fulfilled their physiological role, are partially destroyed and absorbed in the small intestine, and part of them enters the large intestine. Here they are also exposed to microflora. With the participation of microflora, enterokinase, alkaline phosphatase, trypsin, amylase are inactivated. Microorganisms take part in the decomposition of paired bile acids, a number of organic substances with the formation of organic acids, their ammonium salts, amines, etc.

Normal microflora suppresses pathogenic microorganisms and prevents infection of the macroorganism. Violation of the normal microflora in diseases or as a result of prolonged administration antibacterial drugs often entails complications caused by rapid reproduction in the intestines of yeast, staphylococcus, proteus and other microorganisms.

intestinal flora synthesizes vitamins K and vitamins of group B. It is possible that the microflora also synthesizes other substances that are important for the body. For example, in "microbial-free rats" grown under sterile conditions, the caecum is extremely enlarged in volume, the absorption of water and amino acids is sharply reduced, which can be the cause of their death.

With the participation of the intestinal microflora in the body, the exchange of proteins, phospholipids, bile and fatty acids, bilirubin, and cholesterol occurs.

Many factors influence the intestinal microflora: the intake of microorganisms with food, dietary characteristics, the properties of digestive secrets (having more or less pronounced bactericidal properties), intestinal motility (which helps to remove microorganisms from it), dietary fiber in the intestinal contents, the presence in the mucous membrane intestinal and intestinal juice immunoglobulins.

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1 Structure and function of the large intestine. Meaning intestinal microflora. The influence of nutritional factors on colon

The structure and functions of the large intestine

The large intestine is the last section of the gastrointestinal tract and consists of six sections:

The caecum (cecum, cecum) with an appendix (vermiform appendix);

ascending colon;

Transverse colon;

descending colon;

Sigmoid colon;

Rectum.

The total length of the large intestine is 1-2 meters, the diameter in the region of the caecum is 7 cm and gradually decreases towards the ascending colon to 4 cm. The distinctive features of the large intestine compared to the small intestine are:

The presence of three special longitudinal muscle cords or ribbons that begin near the appendix and end at the beginning of the rectum; they are located at an equal distance from each other (in diameter);

The presence of characteristic swellings, which on the outside look like protrusions, and on the inside - bag-shaped depressions;

The presence of processes of the serous membrane 4-5 cm long, which contain adipose tissue.

The cells of the mucous membrane of the colon do not have villi, since the intensity of absorption processes in it is significantly reduced.

In the large intestine, water absorption ends and feces are formed. Mucus is secreted by the cells of the mucous membrane for their formation and movement through the sections of the large intestine.

Lives in the lumen of the large intestine a large number of microorganisms with which the human body normally establishes symbiosis. On the one hand, microbes absorb food residues and synthesize vitamins, a number of enzymes, amino acids and other compounds. At the same time, a change in the quantitative and especially qualitative composition of microorganisms leads to significant violations of the functional activity of the organism as a whole. This can happen when the rules of nutrition are violated - the consumption of large quantities of refined foods with a low content of dietary fiber, excess food, etc.

Under these conditions, the so-called putrefactive bacteria begin to predominate, releasing substances in the process of vital activity that have a negative effect on humans. This condition is defined as intestinal dysbiosis. We will talk about it in detail in the section on the colon.

Fecal (fecal) masses move through the intestines due to wave-like movements colon(peristalsis) and reach the rectum - the last section, which serves for their accumulation and excretion. In its lowest section there are two sphincters - internal and external, which close the anus and open during defecation. The opening of these sphincters is normally regulated by the central nervous system. The urge to defecate in a person appears with mechanical irritation of the receptors of the anus.

Importance of intestinal microflora

The human gastrointestinal tract is inhabited by numerous microorganisms, the metabolism of which is closely integrated into the metabolism of the macroorganism. Microorganisms inhabit all parts of the gastrointestinal tract, but in the most significant quantities and diversity are presented in the large intestine.

The most important and studied functions of the intestinal microflora are the provision of anti-infective protection, stimulation immune functions macroorganism, nutrition of the colon, absorption of minerals and water, synthesis of B and K vitamins, regulation of lipid and nitrogen metabolism, regulation of intestinal motility.

Anti-infective protection performed by intestinal microorganisms is largely associated with the antagonism of representatives of the normal microflora in relation to other microbes. The suppression of the activity of some bacteria by others is carried out in several ways. These include competition for substrates for growth, competition for fixation sites, induction of an immune response of a macroorganism, stimulation of peristalsis, creation of an unfavorable environment, modification/deconjugation of bile acids (as one of the ways to modify environmental conditions), and synthesis of antibiotic-like substances.

The metabolic effects of the normal intestinal microflora associated with the synthesis of short chain fatty acids (SCFA) have been well studied. The latter are formed as a result of anaerobic fermentation of di-, oligo- and polysaccharides available to bacteria. Locally, SCFA determine the decrease in pH and provide colonization resistance, and also take part in the regulation of intestinal motility. The formation of butyrate is extremely important for the epithelium of the colon, because. it is butyrate that colonocytes use to meet their energy needs. In addition, butyrate is a regulator of apoptosis, differentiation and proliferation processes, and therefore anticarcinogenic effects are associated with it. Finally, butyrate is directly involved in the absorption of water, sodium, chlorine, calcium and magnesium. Therefore, its formation is necessary to maintain the water and electrolyte balance in the body, as well as to provide the macroorganism with calcium and magnesium.

In addition, the decrease in pH associated with the formation of SCFAs leads to the fact that ammonia, which is formed in the colon in connection with the microbial metabolism of proteins and amino acids, passes into ammonium ions and in this form cannot freely diffuse through the intestinal wall into the blood, but excreted in the feces in the form of ammonium salts.

Another important function of the microflora is to convert bilirubin to urobilinogen, which is partly absorbed and excreted in the urine and partly excreted in the feces.

Finally, the participation of the colon microflora in lipid metabolism seems to be extremely important. Microbes metabolize cholesterol that enters the large intestine into coprostanol and then into coprostanone. Acetate and propionate formed as a result of fermentation, having been absorbed into the bloodstream and reaching the liver, can affect the synthesis of cholesterol. In particular, it has been shown that acetate stimulates its synthesis, while propionate inhibits it. The third way of influence of microflora on lipid metabolism in the macroorganism is associated with the ability of bacteria to metabolize bile acids, in particular, cholic acid. Conjugated cholic acid not absorbed in the distal ileum in the colon undergoes deconjugation by microbial choleglycine hydrolase and dehydroxylation with the participation of 7-alpha-dehydroxylase. This process is stimulated by an increase in the pH values ​​in the intestine. The resulting deoxycholic acid binds to dietary fiber and is excreted from the body. With an increase in pH, deoxycholic acid is ionized and well absorbed in the large intestine, and when it decreases, it is excreted. The absorption of deoxycholic acid provides not only replenishment of the pool of bile acids in the body, but is also an important factor stimulating the synthesis of cholesterol. An increase in pH values ​​in the colon, which may be associated with various reasons, leads to an increase in the activity of enzymes leading to the synthesis of deoxycholic acid, to an increase in its solubility and absorption and, as a result, an increase in the blood level of bile acids, cholesterol and triglycerides. One of the reasons for the increase in pH may be the lack of prebiotic components in the diet, which disrupt the growth of normal microflora, incl. bifido- and lactobacilli.

Another important metabolic function of the intestinal microflora is the synthesis of vitamins. In particular, B vitamins and vitamin K are synthesized. The latter is necessary in the body for the so-called. calcium-binding proteins that ensure the functioning of the blood coagulation system, neuromuscular transmission, bone structure, etc. Vitamin K is a complex of chemical compounds, among which vitamin K1 is distinguished - phyloquinone - plant origin, as well as vitamin K2 - a group of compounds called menaquinones - synthesized by microflora in the small intestine. The synthesis of menaquinones is stimulated with a lack of phyloquinone in the diet and may increase with excessive growth of the small intestine microflora, for example, while taking drugs that reduce gastric secretion. Conversely, the use of antibiotics, leading to the suppression of the small intestine microflora, can lead to the development of antibiotic-induced hemorrhagic diathesis(hypoprothrombinemia).

The fulfillment of the listed and many other metabolic functions is possible only if the normal microflora is fully provided with the nutrients necessary for its growth and development. The most important energy sources for it are carbohydrates: di-, oligo- and polysaccharides that do not break down in the lumen of the small intestine, which are called prebiotics. The microflora receives nitrogenous components for its growth to a large extent during the breakdown of mucin, a component of mucus in the large intestine. The resulting ammonia must be eliminated under conditions of low pH, which is provided by short-chain fatty acids formed as a result of the metabolism of prebiotics. The detoxifying effect of non-digestible disaccharides (lactulose) is quite well known and has long been used in clinical practice. For normal life Colon bacteria also need vitamins, some of which they synthesize themselves. At the same time, part of the synthesized vitamins is absorbed and used by the macroorganism, but the situation is different with some of them. For example, a number of bacteria living in the colon, in particular, representatives of Enterobacteriacea, Pseudomonas, Klebsiella, can synthesize vitamin B12, but this vitamin cannot be absorbed in the colon and is inaccessible to the macroorganism.

In this regard, the nature of the child's nutrition to a large extent determines the degree of integration of microflora into his own metabolism. This is especially pronounced in children of the first year of life who are breastfed or artificially fed. The intake of prebiotics (lactose and oligosaccharides) with human milk contributes to the successful development of the normal intestinal microflora of a newborn child with a predominance of bifido- and lactoflora, while with artificial feeding with mixtures based on cow's milk without prebiotics, streptococci, bacteroids, representatives of Enterobacteriacea are predominant. Accordingly, the spectrum of bacterial metabolites in the intestine and the nature of metabolic processes also change. So, the predominant SCFAs with natural feeding are acetate and lactate, and with artificial feeding - acetate and propionate. Protein metabolites (phenols, cresol, ammonia) are formed in large quantities in the intestines of formula-fed children, and their detoxification, on the contrary, is reduced. Also, the activity of beta-glucuronidase and beta-glucosidase is higher (typical for Bacteroides and Closridium). The result of this is not only a decrease in metabolic functions, but also a direct damaging effect on the intestines.

In addition, there is a certain sequence of formation of metabolic functions, which should be taken into account when determining the diet of a child in the first year of life. So normally, the breakdown of mucin is determined after 3 months. life and is formed by the end of the first year, deconjugation of bile acids - from the 1st month. life, the synthesis of coprostanol - in the 2nd half of the year, the synthesis of urobilinogen - in 11-21 months. The activity of beta-glucuronidase and beta-glucosidase in the normal development of intestinal microbiocenosis in the first year remains low.

Thus, the intestinal microflora performs numerous functions that are vital for the macroorganism. The formation of a normal microbiocenosis is inextricably linked with the rational nutrition of intestinal bacteria. An important component of nutrition are prebiotics, which are part of human milk or formulas for artificial feeding.

Influence of nutritional factors on the large intestine

The most important irritants of the colon are dietary fiber, B vitamins, especially thiamine. A laxative effect when taken in sufficient doses is provided by sources of high concentrations of sugar, honey, beet puree, carrots, dried fruits (especially plums), xylitol, sorbitol, mineral waters rich in magnesium salts, sulfates (such as Batalineka). Violations of the motor and excretory functions of the large intestine develop with the predominant consumption of refined and other foods devoid of dietary fiber (white bread, pasta, rice, semolina, eggs, etc.), as well as with a lack of vitamins, especially group B.

The delay in the release of decay products (constipation) causes an increase in the flow of toxic substances into the liver, which aggravates its function, leads to the development of atherosclerosis and other diseases, and to early aging. Diet overload meat products increases the processes of decay. So, indole is formed from tryptophan, it contributes to the manifestation of the action of some chemical carcinogens. To suppress the activity of putrefactive microflora in the large intestine, II Mechnikov considered it expedient to consume lactic acid products.

An excess of carbohydrates in the diet causes the development of fermentation processes.

Thus, the final section of the digestive tract is involved in the excretion of toxins from the body, and also performs a number of other functions. With the help of nutrition, it is possible to influence the activity of the large intestine and the microflora inhabiting it.

The concept of the coefficient of assimilation. Comparing the composition of food and excrement excreted through the large intestine, it is possible to determine the degree of absorption of nutrients by the body. So, to determine the digestibility of this type of protein, the amount of nitrogen in food and feces is compared. As you know, proteins are the main source of nitrogen in the body. On average, despite the diversity of these substances in nature, they contain about 16% nitrogen (hence, 1 g of nitrogen corresponds to 6.25 g of protein). The absorption coefficient is equal to the difference between the amounts of nitrogen in consumed products and feces, expressed as a percentage; it corresponds to the proportion of protein retained in the body. Example: the diet contained 90 g of protein, which corresponds to 14.4 g of nitrogen; 2 g of nitrogen was excreted with excrement. Consequently, 12.4 g of nitrogen was retained in the body, which corresponds to 77.5 g of protein, i.e. 86% of the administered with food.

Nutrient digestibility is influenced by many factors: food composition, including the amount of ballast compounds, technological processing of products, their combination, the functional state of the digestive apparatus, etc. Digestibility deteriorates with age. This must be taken into account when selecting products and methods of their technological processing for the diets of the elderly. The degree of digestibility is affected by the volume of food, so it is necessary to distribute the mass of food into several meals during the day, taking into account living conditions and health status.

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The large intestine is the part of the alimentary canal that is responsible for the formation and excretion of stool. Excretory substances (metabolic products), salts of heavy metals, etc. accumulate in the lumen of the colon. The bacterial flora of the colon produces vitamins B and K, and also ensures the digestion of fiber.

A feature of the relief of the mucous membrane of the colon is the presence of a large number of crypts and the absence of villi.

The vast majority of cells in the epithelium of the colon mucosa are goblet cells, which produce a large amount of mucus on the surface of the mucosa and, mixing with undigested food particles, contribute to the passage of feces in the caudal direction.

In the right side of the colon, muscle contractions, which are called antiperistaltic waves, create a reverse movement, contributing to the temporary delay of the intestinal contents for complete processing by microorganisms.

Functions of the large intestine

When it comes to digestion, the large intestine performs three main functions:

  • absorption of remaining water and electrolytes from digested food;
  • digestion of food debris that has not been digested in the small intestine;
  • excretion of waste products (faeces) from the body.

Differences between the large and small intestines

They are created from muscle tissue, but have a number of physiological and functional differences. However, they are closely related, since they are harmoniously involved in the process of digesting food.

A living person has a length small intestine is 3.5-4 meters, in the dead - about 6-8 m due to loss of intestinal tone, that is, 2 times more.

The length of the large intestine is much smaller - 1.5-2 meters.

There are over a hundred reliable medical studies that confirm that more than 65 diseases human body one way or another associated with improper bowel function.

Colon imbalance can be the cause of many chronic diseases, including arthritis, allergies, asthma, irritable bowel syndrome, liver, kidney, skin problems, and even heart disease or malignancy.

To avoid long-term health problems, it is extremely important to take care of the health of the intestines and keep them functioning properly.

To normalize the functioning of the intestines and the body as a whole, it is recommended to go through the program 2 times a year.

A well-functioning liver is the neutralizer of all the toxins that can pass from the large intestine to the liver. Therefore, it is important to maintain liver health as well: a program.

Causes of the development of diseases of the large intestine

  • heredity;
  • the presence of other diseases of the digestive system (gastritis, pancreatitis);
  • intestinal infections;
  • taking some medications(prolonged and uncontrolled antibiotic therapy can disrupt the composition of the microflora);
  • nutritional errors (abuse of fatty, fried foods, semi-finished products, lack of fiber in the diet, etc.);
  • lack of vitamins and minerals;
  • bad habits;
  • excess body weight;
  • hypodynamia;
  • stress;
  • dysmotility;
  • digestive problems;
  • suction problems;
  • inflammatory processes;
  • the appearance of neoplasms.

Statistics say that certain diseases of the digestive system are present in 90% of the population of developed countries.

Inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, are diagnosed in about 200 people out of 100,000 examined. They mostly affect young people. Men and women get sick with about the same frequency.

Increasingly, patients with bowel symptoms are being diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome. Its prevalence in the world reaches 20%. According to various data, women suffer from irritable bowel syndrome 2-4 times more often than men, with the highest incidence rates occurring at the age of 30-40 years.

Symptoms of colon disease

Most diseases of the large intestine are asymptomatic for a long time, and then they declare themselves with the so-called intestinal discomfort, which increases over time.

Common symptoms of bowel disease are as follows:

  • stool disorders (constipation, diarrhea, unstable stool);
  • stomach ache;

Most often, pain in the lateral parts of the abdomen, in the area anus.

Pain in the epigastric region or above the navel is less common. As a rule, the pains are dull, aching, bursting, less often - cramping. They weaken after passing gases or emptying the intestines. Rumbling in the abdomen, bloating, accumulation of gases are more often observed in the second half of the day. They intensify in the evening, and weaken by night.

Other signs of colon disease are discharge of mucus or pus from the anus, bleeding or blood in the stool, frequent false urge to defecate (tenesmus), incontinence of flatus and feces.

Many inflammatory and neoplastic diseases of the colon are accompanied by a serious violation of metabolic processes. As a result, a person feels growing weakness, exhaustion, the functions of the genital organs are disturbed.

In sick children, growth and development slows down.

Colon diseases

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the large intestine affects the mucous membrane of the rectum and its other departments. The inflammatory process from the rectum can spread to the entire colon.

Crohn's disease- the entire intestine, stomach and esophagus are affected. Inflammatory changes are single or multiple. The inflammatory process extends to the entire thickness of the intestine. Complications - the formation of fistulas (purulent passages), fever, damage to the joints, eyes, liver, skin rashes.

Tumors of the large intestine- benign and malignant (colon cancer and rectum). Risk factors for tumors include a diet rich in refined foods and animal fats, the presence of colon polyps, hereditary polyposis, heredity, and long-term ulcerative colitis.

Colon dyskinesia - motor dysfunctionlarge and, to a lesser extent, small intestine, not due to organic lesions and characterized painful sensations, a change in the function of bowel movement, and sometimes increased secretion of mucus.

Diverticulosis of the large intestine is a disease in which the wallintestines are formed small, up to one or two centimeters in size, saccular protrusions (diverticula) .

Haemorrhoids - b a disease consisting in the expansion of the veins of the lower part of the rectum, where knots form, which at times bleed.

Appendicitis -inflammation of the appendix.

Dysbiosis -this is a change in the composition and quantitative ratios of the normal microflora (microorganisms) that inhabit the human body.

NSP anti-inflammatory products:

Classification of types of digestion

By origin, digestive enzymes are divided into three types:

  • own;
  • symbiotic;
  • autolytic.

According to the localization of the process of splitting polymers:

  • intracellular digestion;
  • extracellular digestion:
    • distant (cavity);
    • contact (parietal, membrane).

Symbiotic digestion

Symbiotic digestion - hydrolysis of nutrients due to enzymes synthesized by the symbionts of the macroorganism - bacteria and protozoa of the digestive tract. Symbiotic digestion occurs in humans in the large intestine.

Due to the lack of the corresponding enzyme in the secretions of the glands, food fiber in humans is not hydrolyzed (this is a certain physiological meaning - the preservation of dietary fibers that play an important role in intestinal digestion), therefore, its digestion by symbiont enzymes in the large intestine is an important process.

Enzyme products from NSP:

  • Digestive enzymes make up for the deficiency of digestive enzymes.
  • Improve the breakdown and absorption of nutrients.
  • Digestive enzymes also normalize the work of the digestive organs.
  • It is used as a systemic enzyme preparation.
  • Improves the breakdown and absorption of proteins.
  • Reduces blood viscosity, improves blood circulation.
  • It has anti-inflammatory and anti-edema effect.
  • Reduces inflammation in digestive system, reduces pain.
  • It enhances the secretion of digestive enzymes and bile, improves the digestion of food in the gastrointestinal tract.
  • Increases the protective properties of the body.

The value of the microflora of the large intestine

Bacteria live both outside (skin) and inside the human body.

Normal microflora of the human body

For an infection to occur importance along with the properties of the pathogen has the state of the macroorganism. It is determined by a complex set of closely related factors and mechanisms and is characterized as susceptibility (sensitivity) or immunity (resistance) to infection.

The most important factor of nonspecific protection is the normal microflora of the skin and mucous membranes.

Normal human microflora plays an important role in protecting the body from pathogenic microorganisms. Representatives of the normal microflora are involved in the nonspecific protection of the areas of the gastrointestinal, respiratory, genitourinary tracts, and skin integuments inhabited by them.

Microorganisms living in certain biotopes (communities) prevent adhesion (gluing) and colonization of body surfaces by pathogenic microorganisms.

The protective effect of normal microflora may be due to competition for nutrients, changes in the pH of the environment, production of active factors that prevent the introduction and reproduction of pathogenic microorganisms.

The microflora of the large intestine

The microflora of the large intestine is a collection of bacteria that coexist with the human body.The share of intestinal microflora accounts for approximately 2 kg of bacteria out of 3-4 kg of total microflora, and most of them live in the large intestine.

The symbiotic microflora of the large intestine plays a significant role in the production of certain vitamins and amino acids, as well as in suppressing the growth of foreign bacteria and stopping putrefactive processes.

Intestinal microflora helps not only the processes of digestion, but performs and maintains human immunity.

Intestinal problems are the cause of many diseases.

Normal microflora contributes to the maturation of the immune system and maintaining it in a state of high functional activity, since the components of the microbial cell non-specifically stimulate the cells of the immune system.

Treatment with antibiotics, in which the composition of the normal microflora changes, and sometimes it completely disappears, causes severe dysbacteriosis, which significantly complicates the disease.

In cases of violation of the composition of biotopes or with a significant decrease in the natural immune defense of the body, diseases can also be caused by representatives of the normal microflora of the body.

The role of bacteria in the digestive process

Everything that enters the human body is processed, broken down and absorbed, bringing benefits or harm, but it always leaves behind some kind of waste or undigested particles. The functions of "cleansing" and "removal" in the body are performed by the bacteria of the large intestine, which are part of a healthy microflora.

Our digestion is largely dependent on these bacteria. According to scientists, there are about five hundred different types of bacteria in the human gastrointestinal tract. Only 30-40 varieties of them are the main "workers".

The relationship between the host organism and bacteria constitutes a coherent symbiotic system, i.e. they are mutually beneficial. The body gives bacterial cells food and "a place in the sun", and in return they perform the extremely important work of processing food, removing residues, strengthening immunity, protecting against dangerous viruses etc.

Diversity of intestinal bacteria

During the vital activity of the bacteria of the large intestine, organic acids are formed that reduce the pH of the environment, which prevents the development of pathogenic microbes, destroys putrefactive and gas-producing bacteria.

According to the health hazard, representatives of the microflora of the large intestine are divided into:

  • useful (lactobacilli and bifidobacteria);
  • conditionally pathogenic, i.e. not dangerous under certain conditions (E. coli);
  • pathogenic (Proteus and Staphylococcus aureus).

In the large intestine, there should normally be the following ratio of microorganisms: for 100 bifidobacteria, 1 lactobacillus and up to 10 pcs. coli. Violation of this proportion can lead to a decrease in the protective function of the microflora and provoke the occurrence of various diseases.

Danger of pathogenic organisms

The action or "hibernation" of pathogens largely depends on the lifestyle of a person. With healthy immunity, pathogenic microorganisms are suppressed and do not pose a threat.

To provoke the destruction of the body's defenses can:

  • unhealthy lifestyle and junk food;
  • alcohol or other intoxication;
  • frequent SARS;
  • uncontrolled intake medicines, especially hormonal drugs and antibiotics;
  • stress and depression;
  • other harmful factors (environmental pollution, harmful production, etc.).

The value of bifidobacteria

The main part of the microflora of the large intestine falls on bifidobacteria. Their main functions:

  • take part in protecting the body from pathogenic microbes (form a protective layer on the mucosa);
  • carry out parietal digestion (in the immediate vicinity of the intestinal walls) and break down solid particles;
  • synthesize amino acids, proteins and vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B6);
  • stimulate the absorption of calcium, iron and vitamin D;
  • increase the growth of immune cells and affect the synthesis of interferon (a protein that resists viruses);
  • have an anti-allergic effect, slowing down the production of histamine, which causes allergies;
  • carry out detoxification - remove intestinal poisons, bind carcinogenic chemicals.

Importance of lactobacilli

Lactobacilli appear in the human body immediately after birth and populate almost all parts of the gastrointestinal tract from the oral cavity to the large intestine.

Functions of lactobacilli:

  • acidity balance;
  • in the process of vital activity of lactobacilli, lactic acid and hydrogen peroxide are formed, which suppress pathogenic bacteria;
  • synthesis of protective substances, due to which an antibiotic barrier is formed in the stomach and small intestine;
  • maintaining immune response and targeted stimulation of immune cells;
  • have an antitumor effect, inhibiting the development of cancer cells.

The meaning of E. coli

E. coli refers to conditionally pathogenic bacteria.

Normally, with a healthy microflora, Escherichia coli:

  • breaks down lactose;
  • synthesizes vitamins of groups B and K;
  • produces substances that act similar to antibiotics and stimulates the production of antibodies.

Disruption of the intestinal microflora balance

After taking antibiotics, trauma, stress, surgical intervention or as a result of a violation of the diet, the composition of the microflora may change and pathogenic bacteria become larger. This condition is called dysbiosis. This leads to the fact that the synthesis of certain fats, enzymes and vitamins stops in the intestine, due to which the harmonious symbiotic system is damaged.

The human body needs immediate help to restore the lost balance. You can't just "eliminate" dangerous microbes. Reducing the number of bacteria is no better than increasing it. The main guarantee of maintaining health is maintaining the quantitative and qualitative balance of the microflora of the body.

NSP products containing bifidobacteria and lactobacilli:

  • Restores normal microflora intestines.
  • Regulates the work of the gastrointestinal tract.
  • Supports the body's natural defenses against bacteria and viruses.
  • Normalizes the synthesis of vitamins E and K.
  • Creates favorable conditions for the reproduction and growth of beneficial microorganisms.

According to the Royal Medical Academy In Britain, 95% of diseases are directly or indirectly related to the colon. The Academy has identified more than 40 types of toxic substances that are formed in the large intestine.

I wish you well!

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