The small intestine is a tube about 6 to 7 meters long and serves as the primary organ that absorbs nutrients as food passes through. The concept of discernment described in Donguibogam closely aligns with the nutrient absorption process in modern medicine. Carbohydrates, proteins, and fats are broken down by enzymes in the small intestine into glucose, amino acids, and fatty acids. These smaller nutrients are absorbed through countless villi on the small intestinal wall, entering the bloodstream to nourish the entire body.
The challenge is that this absorption rate varies from person to person. Even with a wholesome diet, if small intestinal function declines due to stress, irregular eating habits, chronic inflammation, certain medications, or gut dysbiosis, nutrient absorption can drop significantly. For instance, when the balance between beneficial bacteria and harmful bacteria is disrupted, digestive enzyme activity decreases and inflammatory reactions may occur in the small intestinal mucosa, contributing to conditions such as leaky gut syndrome. As the tight junctions between intestinal mucosal cells loosen, large, incompletely digested food molecules or toxins can pass into the bloodstream, leading to systemic inflammation, autoimmune diseases, and allergic reactions.
In addition, stress directly affects the digestive system. Under stress, the sympathetic nerve becomes dominant, reducing blood flow volume to digestive organs, suppressing digestive enzyme secretion, and lowering intestinal motility. When the body treats the situation as an emergency, digestion is compromised. As a result, the absorption of micronutrients such as vitamins and minerals is hindered, manifesting as chronic fatigue, lethargy, impaired concentration, skin troubles, and weakened immunity. Considering that roughly 90% of serotonin is produced in the gut, intestinal health and nutrient absorption clearly influence emotional balance and mental well-being. This is why supplements alone often fall short. Supporting the body's absorptive capacity remains essential.
