Excretory Functions of the Gastrointestinal Tract. Defecation

Abstract

The gastrointestinal (GI) represents a critical hub where certain by-products of metabolism are channeled for removal from the body. Disorders that affect the excretion of metabolic waste products from the gut can have serious consequences to health. Furthermore, the undigested products of metabolism are also removed from the distal gut. This ensures continuous and adequate functioning of the GI tract, which are all required to maintain ongoing life processes. This chapter deals with the metabolic products produced in the gut that are channeled for removal as well as the evacuation of the residual wastes of digestion and the associated health implications.