Table of Contents
1. The intestine acts independently.
The intestine is the only one of our organs that is not controlled by the brain, but acts independently. Although the two organs are connected, there are far more nerve cords running from the gut to the brain than the other way around. Nevertheless, there is a close connection between a healthy intestinal flora and our general well-being. Our intestines can even perceive sensations independently and learn from situations. It is also the seat of our intuition: it processes all sensory impressions and then transmits the sensations to the brain.
2. The gut regulates itself.
Our gut regulates itself with the help of 200 million nerve cells. However, when there are disorders in the gut flora or inflammatory bowel diseases such as irritable bowel syndrome or Crohn’s disease , the gut needs some support. Tip: A varied diet and a daily supply of probiotics help the intestines to stay healthy.
3. A healthy gut makes you happy.
3. The fact that our intestines play a key role in controlling our emotions has been proven several times by research in recent years. For example, the happiness hormone serotonin, which our body releases when kissing, for example, is largely formed in the intestine.
In addition, serotonin is said to play an important role in muscle movement in the intestines and thus in healthy digestion .
4. 30 tons of food pass through our intestines in our lifetime.
These are excreted as stool , which consists of 75% water. The rest is fiber, body tissues, mucus, salts, and bacteria.
5. 50,000 liters of fluid pass through the intestines.
On average, a person consumes 50,000 liters of liquid in their lifetime – these also pass through the intestines.
6. Our gut is a proven defense system.
The intestinal bacteria are very important for our immune system. Over 500 different types support the intestines in the immune system and digestion.
7. 70% of the immune system is controlled from the gut.
While this is impressive, it is unfortunately also one of the reasons why it is so difficult to transplant an intestine. The recipient often rejects the foreign cells.
8. 100 trillion bacteria live in our colon.
That is ten times more than our body has in its own cells. These bacteria weigh up to two kilograms in total and make up a not inconsiderable part of our body weight.
9. The large intestine is therefore the most densely populated ecosystem of all.
In every single gram of stool that is excreted through the intestines, there are more bacteria than there are people on earth!
10. Our gut is bigger than a basketball court.
It is up to eight meters long and could be spread over an area of 500 square meters! Of course, it doesn’t take up that much space in the body because it’s made up of tons of tiny folds and villi in the intestinal wall.
