There are many myths surrounding diet and whether certain eating habits ‘cause’ certain diseases or the eventual removal of organs. Certainly, not everything is linked only to diet, as I have often ‘bothered’ you by noting other ‘obvious’ factors, such as stress, genetic predisposition, etc. However, all of these do not negate the fact that we should treat our bodies with love and give them the best.

Our body is so complex that even with a severe change, such as the removal of an organ, it can adapt and ‘reboot’, maintaining its homeostasis. The removal of the spleen, part of the large intestine, the gallbladder, kidneys, the appendix, and even organs that seem very essential, such as the stomach, still allows you to survive. For some of these, your lifestyle, including diet, certainly needs to change. For others, not so much. An example of this is the appendix.

The appendix is a tube-like organ that is connected to the large intestine. For many years, researchers have been ‘scratching their heads’ trying to figure out what its function is and why it exists. Recent studies have discovered that it plays a role in health as it serves as a haven for beneficial bacteria.

Appendicitis, the inflammation of the organ, is a very serious clinical condition as it often requires immediate removal of the organ. How is this caused? Is it linked to diet?

In general, inflammation can occur when the cecum becomes blocked by something (feces, foreign objects, cancer). If not treated, it can burst, causing life-threatening complications such as peritonitis or an abscess.

Although there is no direct connection between eating habits and appendicitis, some dietary factors may influence the development of such inflammation.

• Low intake of dietary fiber. Fiber helps keep stools soft, thus potentially reducing the likelihood of intestinal blockage.
• High consumption of processed foods. These foods are usually low in fiber and high in sugars, fats, and preservatives/additives.
• Low consumption of fruits and vegetables. Both the fiber content and the water and antioxidants in these help maintain gut health.

Myths:

• The consumption of small, hard foods such as seeds and the consumption of spicy foods causes inflammation of the appendix.

Other factors that may contribute besides diet:

• Genetic: There is a genetic predisposition if there is a history of appendicitis in the family.
• Gender & Age: It seems to be a more common condition in males aged 10-30 years.
• Other infections: Infections in the gastrointestinal tract or other parts of the body, as a response of the immune system, can cause swelling of the appendix.

Some things cannot be predicted, but drinking water and consuming fiber can help you maintain a healthier appendix.

* The above is not medical advice but mere suggestions for improving your diet. Before herbal use you should consult your doctor, especially if you have health issues, you are pregnant or under the age of 6.

 Evropi-Sofia Dalampira holds a PhD in Agricultural Economics, an MSc in Botany-Biology and an MSc in Horticulture & Viticulture.