top of page

Gastrointestinal Functions

Copyright Redland Reflexology

Here are brief overview descriptions based on general knowledge of the various items listed on your Body Frequency Analyser/Optimiser Body Chemistry Report. Note they have not been checked for accuracy. Mistakes can happen so please double-check any important information.

Gastrointestinal Functions 1/Digestive Functions

1. **Colon Peristalsis Function**: Colon peristalsis refers to the rhythmic contractions of the muscles in the colon that help move waste material through the large intestine toward the rectum for excretion. This movement is essential for efficient digestion and waste elimination.

2. **Colon Absorption**: In the colon, water and electrolytes such as sodium and chloride are absorbed from the remaining indigestible food matter. This process helps to form and compact feces, which is then eliminated from the body.

3. **Gastric Absorption**: Gastric absorption refers to the limited absorption that occurs in the stomach. While the stomach is primarily involved in the breakdown of food, it does absorb certain substances such as water, alcohol, and some medications.

4. **Gastric Peristalsis**: Gastric peristalsis is the series of muscle contractions that occur in the stomach to mix and propel food through the digestive tract. These contractions help break down food and mix it with gastric juices for digestion.

5. **Hydrochloric Acid (HCl) Production**: Hydrochloric acid is produced by the parietal cells in the stomach lining. It plays a crucial role in digestion by creating an acidic environment that helps break down food, activate pepsinogen into pepsin, and kill harmful bacteria.

6. **Intestinal Bacteria**: Intestinal bacteria, also known as gut microbiota, are a diverse community of microorganisms that inhabit the gastrointestinal tract. They play a vital role in digestion, immune function, and the synthesis of certain vitamins and nutrients.

7. **Intraluminal Pressure**: Intraluminal pressure refers to the pressure within the lumen (interior) of the gastrointestinal tract. Proper regulation of this pressure is important for the efficient movement of food and waste through the digestive system.

8. **Pepsin Secretion**: Pepsin is a digestive enzyme secreted by the chief cells of the stomach in the form of pepsinogen. Once activated by hydrochloric acid, pepsin breaks down proteins into smaller peptides for absorption.

9. **Small Intestine Nutrient Absorption**: The small intestine is the primary site for nutrient absorption in the digestive tract. It absorbs a wide variety of nutrients, including carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals, through its highly specialized lining.

10. **Small Intestine Peristalsis**: Small intestine peristalsis involves the coordinated contractions of the smooth muscles in the small intestine. These contractions propel food along the length of the small intestine, aiding in digestion and nutrient absorption.

 

Gastrointestinal Functions 1/ Inflammation/Oxidation

Here is a brief overview of each heading based on general knowledge:

1. **Cytokine Activity**: Cytokines are small proteins that play a crucial role in cell signaling within the immune system. Cytokine activity involves the regulation of immune responses, inflammation, and cell proliferation. Dysregulation of cytokine activity can lead to inflammatory and autoimmune diseases.

2. **Fibrinogen**: Fibrinogen is a soluble plasma protein that plays a key role in blood clotting. When activated, it is converted into fibrin, which forms the meshwork for blood clots. Elevated levels of fibrinogen can indicate an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and other conditions involving inflammation.

3. **Hs-CRP**: High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP) is a biomarker used to measure inflammation in the body. Elevated levels of hs-CRP can indicate an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, infection, or other inflammatory conditions.

4. **Homocysteine**: Homocysteine is an amino acid in the blood. Elevated levels of homocysteine can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and may be associated with other health conditions such as stroke and osteoporosis.

5. **Histamine**: Histamine is an organic nitrogenous compound involved in the immune response, as well as in regulating physiological functions such as sleep and digestion. It plays a key role in allergic reactions and inflammation.

6. **Lp-PLA2**: Lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (Lp-PLA2) is an enzyme involved in the metabolism of lipids. It is a biomarker for cardiovascular risk, as elevated levels may indicate the presence of atherosclerosis or inflammation in the arteries.

7. **Myeloperoxidase**: Myeloperoxidase (MPO) is an enzyme found in white blood cells that plays a role in the body's defense against pathogens. High levels of MPO are associated with inflammation and may indicate an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

8. **nf-Kappa b**: Nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (nf-Kappa b) is a protein complex that plays a key role in regulating immune and inflammatory responses. It is involved in cellular responses to stress, pathogens, and other stimuli.

9. **Cortisol Dysfunction**: Cortisol dysfunction refers to an imbalance in the production or regulation of cortisol, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands. Cortisol is involved in the body's response to stress and helps regulate metabolism, blood pressure, and immune function.

10. **Sedimentation Rate**: Sedimentation rate, also known as erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), is a blood test that measures how quickly red blood cells settle at the bottom of a test tube. An elevated sedimentation rate can indicate inflammation or other medical conditions such as infection or autoimmune disorders.


 

Please note:  The Body Analyser/Optimiser is an educational tool that will not detect cancer, ailments, disease, or medical conditions. Redland Reflexology and the Body Frequency Analyser/Optimiser do not diagnose, treat, or cure any disease or medical condition. The Body Frequency Analyser is for personal and educational purposes only and is not a medical device; there are no guarantees of any kind, and it does not claim to be precise or 100% accurate. If you have any concerns about your health, we recommend that you seek medical advice.

body-analyser-fitness-health.jpg

Gastrointestinal Functions 2/ Insulin Resistance and Pancreas

Here is a brief description of the terms related to insulin resistance and pancreas function:

**Ferritin**: Ferritin is a protein that stores iron and releases it in a controlled manner. Elevated ferritin levels can be associated with insulin resistance and other metabolic disorders.

**Adiponectin**: Adiponectin is a hormone produced by fat cells that plays a key role in regulating glucose levels and fatty acid breakdown. Low levels of adiponectin are often associated with insulin resistance.

**Alpha-Hydroxybutyrate (a-HB)**: Alpha-Hydroxybutyrate is a biomarker that may indicate early metabolic dysfunction and insulin resistance. Elevated a-HB levels can signal impaired glucose metabolism.

**Free Fatty Acids (FFA)**: Free fatty acids are lipids released from adipose tissue. High levels of FFAs can interfere with insulin signaling and lead to insulin resistance.

**Ghrelin**: Ghrelin is a hormone produced in the stomach that stimulates appetite. It may also play a role in glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity.

**HOMA-IR**: Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) is a method used to estimate insulin resistance based on fasting blood glucose and insulin levels.

**Leptin**: Leptin is a hormone produced by fat cells that helps regulate energy balance and appetite. High levels of leptin can indicate leptin resistance, which is associated with obesity and insulin resistance.

**Leptin/BMI Ratio**: The ratio of leptin to BMI can provide insight into leptin resistance and metabolic health. Elevated leptin levels in relation to BMI may indicate metabolic issues.

184. **IRi Score**: The IRi score is a metric used to assess insulin resistance and risk for metabolic disorders. It is derived from various biomarkers and clinical data.

 

**Linoleoyl-glycerophosphocholine (L-GPC)**: L-GPC is a lipid molecule that may serve as a biomarker for insulin resistance and metabolic health. Elevated levels may indicate impaired glucose metabolism.

**Oleic Acid**: Oleic acid is a monounsaturated fatty acid that is part of a healthy diet. It may help improve insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation.

**Anti-GAD (IU/mL)**: Anti-GAD antibodies target glutamic acid decarboxylase, an enzyme in the pancreas. They are often associated with autoimmune diabetes (type 1 diabetes) and may indicate beta-cell destruction.

**C-peptide (ng/mL)**: C-peptide is a byproduct of insulin production and is measured to assess insulin secretion and beta-cell function.

**Proinsulin (pmo/L)**: Proinsulin is the precursor to insulin and can be measured to evaluate beta-cell function and insulin production.

**Proinsulin: C-peptide Ratio**: The ratio of proinsulin to C-peptide can provide insights into beta-cell function and the efficiency of insulin production.

**Fructosamine**: Fructosamine measures average blood glucose levels over the past 2-3 weeks, providing an alternative to HbA1c for monitoring glycemic control.

**Insulin Secretion**: Insulin secretion refers to the process by which the pancreas releases insulin in response to elevated blood glucose levels.

**HbA1c**: Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) measures average blood glucose levels over the past 2-3 months. It is a key marker for assessing long-term glycemic control.

**Blood Glucose**: Blood glucose levels reflect the amount of glucose in the bloodstream. Elevated levels can indicate poor glycemic control and potential insulin resistance.

**Glycation Gap**: The glycation gap is the difference between observed and predicted HbA1c levels. A large gap may indicate abnormal glucose metabolism.

**Postprandial Glycemic Index (PPGi)**: PPGi measures the increase in blood glucose levels after consuming a meal. It helps assess how different foods impact blood sugar levels and insulin response.

bottom of page