The ileocecal valve connects the small
intestine with the large intestine. The
small intestine takes in all of the
nutrients (healthy substances) that the
body needs. The large intestine absorbs
moisture from the matter that is left, and
excretes the waste from the anus. Food
normally travels from the small intestine
to the large intestine. The ileocecal
valve prevents food from reentering the
small intestine once it gets to the large
intestine. In other words, it prevents the
food from traveling backwards, from the
large intestine to the small intestine.
The ileocecal valve may become irritated
in health conscious people who eat large
amounts of foods that are high in dietary
fiber. Dietary fiber is a term for
chemical substances in the cells of plants
that cannot be digested by the human body.
As a result of the irritation to the
ileocecal valve, it may not be able to
function as effectively. Symptoms of
ileocecal valve disorder are pain in the
lower right part of the belly, feeling
full after eating small amounts of food,
and feeling bloated. Constipation
(difficulty pooping), gas, and diarrhea
(loose, watery feces) are also symptoms of
ileocecal valve disorder. The previously
mentioned symptoms can get worse after
eating foods high in dietary fiber.
Ileocecal valve disorder is usually
treated by taking steps to decrease the
irritation to the ileocecal valve. This
can be done by decreasing the intake of
foods that are high in dietary fiber.
Other steps that can be taken include
avoiding foods that have lots of spices,
and avoiding scratchy foods such as grains
and wheat bran. Avoiding foods that cause
constipation, such as bananas and cheese
can also be helpful. People should also
avoid foods they are sensitive to.
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