The hormone Peptide YY is produced in the GI tract. Peptide YY quells appetite. Both Ghrelin and Peptide YY send messages to the brain that regulates our appetite, telling us when we are hungry and when we are not.
Nerve Regulators
There are two different types of nerves that help to control our digestive system. Outside nerves lead from the unconscious part of our brain to the digestive organs. They release acetylcholine and adrenaline. Acetylcholine stimulates the digestive organs and aids in processing food and liquid through the digestive system. It also aids the pancreas and stomach in the production of digestive juices. Adrenaline aids stomach and intestine muscles to decrease blood flow to these organs.
The intrinsic or inside nerves make up a dense network in the walls of the colon, esophagus, small intestine and stomach. These nerves are triggered when the walls of the hollow organs are stretched by ingested food. It is the intrinsic nerves which release substances that regulate the speed of food movement and the digestive tract’s production of juices.
Function of the Digestive System
When the digestive system is working well, we are at optimum health. However, if it isn’t working well it can cause a wide variety of problems including diarrhea, acid reflux, constipation, vomiting, ulcers and more. If you experience any of these symptoms or stomach pain on an ongoing basis, be sure to consult a health care professional. They will be able to diagnose the problem and treat it properly so you will continue to experience good health.