Unless you’re a medical professional or have some type of digestive issue, you probably haven’t spent much time thinking about gastroenterology. I don’t blame you. Although, I bet you’ve thought more about it than you realize. Things like chronic acid reflux or heartburn, and even bloating or abdominal pain, are all things you would go see a gastroenterologist for.
Our digestive system, also known as the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, begins at the mouth, includes the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, large intestine (also known as the colon) rectum, and ends at the anus. The entire system – from mouth to anus – is about 30 feet long. Our GI tract turns the food we eat into the nutrients and energy that we need to survive. Then the food molecules that can’t be absorbed are eliminated. In short, food gets broken down for energy and then waste is excreted. So you know, these organs are kind of important.
The purpose of this blog is to inform you about the digestive system and all its glory. We hope to raise awareness about the 3rd most commonly diagnosed cancer and the 2nd leading cause of cancer death – colorectal cancer. In addition, we will post updates about events and happenings here in the gastroenterology division. Lastly, we want to educate you about the body and provide helpful tips for keeping your GI tract on the right track.