Body organs - How do they work | Nutrition

 

1. The Brain (The Control Center)

  • What it does: Processes information, controls movement, stores memories, and regulates every unconscious process (like breathing).

  • How it works: It uses billions of neurons to send electrical and chemical signals (neurotransmitters) throughout the body via the nervous system.

  • How to care for it: Prioritize 7–9 hours of sleep (this is when the brain "cleans" itself of toxins), stay mentally active with puzzles or learning, and manage stress through meditation.

  • Nutrition: * Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in walnuts, salmon, and chia seeds (crucial for cell structure).

    • Antioxidants: Berries (blueberries especially) protect brain cells from oxidative stress.

    • Complex Carbs: Oats and whole grains provide steady glucose (the brain's primary fuel).

2. The Heart (The Pump)

  • What it does: Circulates blood to deliver oxygen and nutrients to every cell while carrying away waste.

  • How it works: A muscular pump with four chambers that uses electrical impulses to contract rhythmically, pushing blood through thousands of miles of vessels.

  • How to care for it: Engage in 150 minutes of moderate cardio per week. Avoid smoking and manage your blood pressure.

  • Nutrition:

    • Lycopene: Found in tomatoes (supports heart tissue health).

    • Fiber: Oats and beans help lower "bad" cholesterol.

    • Healthy Fats: Avocado and olive oil keep arteries flexible.

3. The Lungs (The Gas Exchanger)

  • What it does: Brings oxygen into the body and removes carbon dioxide (a waste product).

  • How it works: Air enters tiny sacs called alveoli, where oxygen passes into the blood and carbon dioxide is swapped out to be exhaled.

  • How to care for it: Avoid smoking and vaping. Practice deep breathing exercises to increase lung capacity and reduce "stale air" buildup.

  • Nutrition:

    • Vitamin C: Citrus fruits and bell peppers help protect lung tissue from pollutants.

    • Cruciferous Veggies: Broccoli and kale are linked to lower risks of lung issues.

    • Hydration: Water keeps the mucosal linings in the lungs thin, helping them function better.

4. The Liver (The Chemist)

  • What it does: Filters toxins from the blood, produces bile for digestion, and stores energy (glucose).

  • How it works: It processes everything you eat or drink, breaking down nutrients into forms the body can use and neutralizing harmful substances.

  • How to care for it: Limit alcohol consumption and be cautious with over-the-counter painkillers (like acetaminophen), which can strain the liver.

  • Nutrition:

    • Cruciferous Vegetables: Broccoli and Brussels sprouts help boost the liver's natural detoxification enzymes.

    • Coffee: In moderation, it has been shown to protect the liver from disease.

    • Glutathione-rich foods: Spinach and avocado support the liver’s filtering process.

5. The Kidneys (The Purifiers)

  • What it does: Filters waste and extra water from the blood to create urine; also regulates blood pressure.

  • How it works: Millions of tiny units called nephrons act as sieves, keeping what the body needs and flushing the rest.

  • How to care for it: Stay hydrated (but don't overdo it) and limit salt intake, as high salt forces kidneys to work much harder.

  • Nutrition:

    • Water: The most important "nutrient" for flushing waste.

    • Berries: Low in potassium and high in antioxidants, making them very kidney-friendly.

    • Red Bell Peppers: High in vitamins A and C but low in potassium, which is ideal for renal health.

6. The Stomach & Intestines (The Processors)

  • What it does: Breaks down food into nutrients and absorbs them into the bloodstream.

  • How it works: The stomach uses acid and enzymes to turn food into liquid; the small intestine absorbs nutrients, and the large intestine absorbs water and houses "good" bacteria.

  • How to care for it: Eat slowly and chew thoroughly. Move your body daily to keep things "moving" through the tract.

  • Nutrition:

    • Fiber: Found in beans, lentils, and whole grains (essential for moving waste).

    • Probiotics: Yogurt, kefir, or sauerkraut (feed the healthy gut bacteria).

    • Ginger: Known to soothe the stomach lining and aid digestion.

7. The Pancreas (The Regulator)

  • What it does: Produces insulin to regulate blood sugar and secretes enzymes to help digest fats and proteins.

  • How it works: It "senses" sugar levels in the blood and releases the exact amount of insulin needed to let that sugar into your cells for energy.

  • How to care for it: Maintain a healthy weight and limit highly processed, sugary "spikes" that overwork the organ.

  • Nutrition:

    • Sweet Potatoes: Their low-glycemic index provides steady energy without a sugar crash.

    • Turmeric: Contains curcumin, which may help reduce inflammation in the pancreas.


Summary Checklist for Daily Care

GoalAction
HydrationDrink water consistently (aim for 2-3 liters depending on activity).
MovementAt least 30 minutes of activity to support heart, lungs, and gut.
Rest7+ hours of sleep for brain and tissue repair.
ModerationLimit salt, refined sugar, and alcohol to protect your filters (liver/kidneys).

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