What do you need to know about your appendix? Everyone talks about digestion but does anyone think about their appendix? Maybe if you’re in pain you do but otherwise, I bet you don’t even give it a thought.
For many years the appendix was considered an unnecessary appendage with it being removed by doctors during abdominal surgery. Have you ever heard someone say “Yes, the doctor removed my appendix to prevent a future problem?”
Fetal Development
Around the 11th week, the appendix stores certain types of endocrine cells that are essential for proper fetal development. Current research is being done to determine the exact function of these hormones.
Immune System
The appendix accumulates T cells and immunoglobulin A antibodies. This allows the immune system to go on alert when an infection is present. This is especially important for autoimmune conditions. This continues until your early 30’s where the lymphoid tissues decrease as you age. That’s because over that time your immune system has had exposure to food antigens and foreign substances to create information that your intestinal immune system uses to mount a defense. Remember this because that’s why it’s so important to have a healthy gut function.
The appendix has a role in maintaining a healthy intestinal microbiome. It’s actually a reservoir of beneficial gut bacteria.
Appendicitis
This is caused by inflammation of the appendix and happens in about 15% of the population. Common causes can include impacted fecal matter, bacteria, or even pinworms. The only solution is surgery.
Protection
So, what can you do to keep your appendix healthy? Increase your dietary fiber and reduce refined carbs. That’s the processed stuff. This will help your good bacteria population, improve bowel movements and prevent pathogens such as pinworms from taking up residence. And do all the other things to create healthy gut bacteria such as eating fermented foods and taking your probiotics.
So the key is to have a healthy gut microbiome in order to affect your overall health.
Solution
If you need help with getting your gut cleaned up to consider a gut cleanse program. This is where you eliminate common allergy foods such as wheat, soy, dairy, and grains. Also, take digestive enzymes, probiotics and liver support supplements to support the healthy gut. You can do this on your own or if you need some help, consider my super simple Clear the Way program.
Thanks to Dr. Ronda Nelson for this info.
If you need help with any of this, I’m here to support and guide you. Have a great week. Donna
