Synonyms in a broader sense
colon, interstitium grassum, rectum, rectum
Introduction
The main function of the colon is to reabsorb water from the stool and transport it to the anus. At the same time, minerals are also removed from the food residues and the stool is thickened. The nutrients from the food have already been absorbed in the small intestine, which is located in front of the large intestine. The large intestine is also home to a large number of bacteria that use food components that are indigestible for us. But the large intestine is not only important for digestion, it also plays a role in the immune system.
Tasks of the colon
The task/main task of the large intestine is to remove water from the intestinal contents (absorption) so that no large amounts of fluid are lost to the body. By the task of withdrawing water and minerals (electrolytes), the stool becomes thicker and thicker as it passes. In order for the stool to move forward despite its increasing firmness, the ability to slide must be guaranteed.
For this purpose, the goblet cells constantly produce mucus. The absorption of liquid reduces the volume of stool to 150-200 ml per day. The rectum then acts as a reservoir (rectal ampoule) where the stool is temporarily stored.
When a certain storage volume is reached, the defecation reflex is triggered and the stool is emptied in a controlled manner. The large intestine is also colonized by bacteria (microflora) that perform various tasks. These bacteria fulfil a barrier function, as they partially prevent the undesired penetration of foreign substances (allergens) into the intestinal wall, they stimulate the movement of the large intestine (motility/peristalsis) and stimulate the immune system.
In addition, bacteria can produce vitamins themselves, which the intestine can then absorb. Certain drugs (e.g. antibiotics), radioactive radiation and malnutrition (e.g. too much sugar) can disturb the microflora and cause problems such as flatulence, metabolism and immune defence.
