The human body has a system, in which numerous processes take place to keep us alive and promote our well-being. Two of these essential processes are our digestion and metabolism, which are closely linked yet perform different functions.
In this article, we will look further into digestion and metabolism from the time food enters our mouths until it finally leaves our bodies as feces. We will also look at what role digestion and metabolism plays during weight loss.
What is digestion and what is its purpose?
Digestion is the complex process by which food is broken down and digested so that nutrients can be absorbed by the body. It all starts in our mouths, where our food is ground up and mixed with saliva. This contains enzymes that start the digestion process. In addition, saliva makes it easier to swallow.
The food then travels down the esophagus to the stomach, where it is mixed with gastric juice and broken down into smaller particles. Stomach juice contains stomach acid and enzymes to digest and kill bacteria. This process of digestion takes about three hours on average and is essential for the absorption of nutrients such as glucose, amino acids, fatty acids, vitamins and minerals.
After the stomach, food enters the small intestine, where juices from the pancreas and gallbladder help further digest food. The small intestine then absorbs these nutrients into the bloodstream, while the indigestible remains continue to the large intestine. In the colon, water and salts are extracted, causing the mass to be greatly thickened. And eventually leaves your body as stool. This journey can take between 24 and 48 hours on average.
Did you know that
Chewing is the only part of the digestive process we can influence ourselves.
Metabolism
While digestion focuses on food processing and absorption, metabolism is the set of chemical reactions that take place in our bodies to produce energy and use nutrients. This complex process takes place in various organs and cells, breaking down nutrients into usable energy and building materials for the body. The liver, gallbladder and pancreas play a crucial role in this process by regulating the processing and distribution of nutrients.
Metabolism (metabolism) explained: what is catabolism and anabolism?
Metabolism, also known as metabolism, includes both catabolism and anabolism. Catabolism is the process of breaking down nutrients into energy, while anabolism is the process of using nutrients to build and repair tissues. These two processes work together to supply our bodies with energy and keep them functioning at optimal levels.
What is a fast metabolism?
A fast metabolism, also called a "high" metabolism, means that the body efficiently converts nutrients into energy and burns calories quickly. People with a fast metabolism often have trouble gaining weight, even if they eat a lot. This may be due to genetics, body composition, age, gender, hormonal levels and physical activity. In general, younger people and those with a lot of muscle mass tend to have a faster metabolism.
What is a slow metabolism?
On the other hand, a slow metabolism, also known as a "low" metabolism, implies that the body converts nutrients into energy slowly and burns fewer calories at rest. People with a slow metabolism often have trouble losing weight or gain weight more easily Age, gender, hormonal changes, physical activity and certain medical conditions (think slow thyroid) can all contribute to a slow metabolism.
Can you influence speed metabolism?
You can influence your metabolism partly by not eating too little, which causes your metabolism to slow down and you end up in the so-called savings mode. Not enough food will enter your body to generate enough energy. You can also increase your (resting) metabolism through more exercise (especially strength training).
.In addition, it is important to get enough sleep and make healthy choices.
The three main factors that can contribute to increasing your metabolism are:
1. Right amount of nutrition (+ good nutrients)
2. Sufficient exercise (at least 30 minutes per day and if overweight at least an hour)
3. Sufficient sleep/relaxation (preferably at least 8 hours)
The balance between digestion and metabolism
It is important to understand that digestion and metabolism are closely linked and complement each other. Without efficient digestion, nutrients cannot be absorbed and utilized by the body, while a healthy metabolism ensures that these nutrients are efficiently converted into energy and building materials.
To keep our bodies healthy and functional, we need a constant supply of energy, the fuel that feeds and sustains our bodies. We get this energy from a variety of sources, including food and stored stores of fat and sugar. Carbohydrates, proteins and fats are the primary nutrients that supply our bodies with energy, with each gram providing a specific number of calories.
How much energy does your body need?
Energy consumption varies greatly from person to person, depending on factors such as resource metabolism, body weight, composition, age, growth, pregnancy, health status, nutritional status, and even climate and stress levels.
What foods help healthy digestion and metabolism?
A healthy digestion and metabolism are crucial for optimal health. To support these, it is important to choose foods that are beneficial to the digestive system. High-fiber foods such as whole grains, vegetables and fruits stimulate bowel movement and promote regular bowel movements. Lean protein sources such as chicken, fish and tofu help maintain a healthy metabolism, while fermented foods such as yogurt and sauerkraut can improve gut health by providing probiotics. Sufficient hydration with water is also essential for efficient digestion.
What foods can negatively affect digestion and metabolism?
On the other hand, foods rich in added sugars, refined carbohydrates and artificial ingredients can strain digestion and metabolism. Too many high-fat foods and alcohol can aggravate digestion and cause dehydration. Reducing salt intake can help reduce fluid retention and prevent bloating. By choosing a balanced diet with plenty of whole, unprocessed foods, adequate hydration, regular exercise and stress reduction, we can optimize the health of our digestion and metabolism.
What changes in metabolism and digestion in people who lose weight?
When people lose a lot of weight, several things happen in their bodies. The resting metabolism, which is how many calories they burn at rest, can start to drop. This is partly due to less muscle mass and adjustments to lower weight. Hormones that regulate hunger and satiety may also change, affecting appetite and fat storage. Understanding these changes is important for maintaining a healthy weight after losing weight.
At NewFysic we make sure you get enough protein, vegetables, fiber, vitamins and minerals through your personal nutrition plan. NewFysic also works with special supplements that help you maintain your muscle mass. As a result, your resting metabolism does not slow down.
