Khaberni - The appendix was long considered useless, but recent studies have shown that it plays a vital role in maintaining gut health and strengthening the immune system.
The appendix is a small worm-like protrusion located at the junction of the small and large intestines, measuring about 7–10 cm in length, commonly known due to its inflammation which requires emergency surgery.
Recent studies have shown that the appendix acts as a reservoir for beneficial bacteria that make up the gut microbiome. During infections or after taking antibiotics which may destroy these bacteria, the appendix helps in restoring bacterial balance by transferring them back to the intestines.
The appendix also contains a large amount of lymphoid tissue, which protects the body from infections, plays an important role in the development of the immune system in the early stages of life, and assists in the production of antibodies.
Some scientists suggest that the appendix was necessary for our ancestors to digest food rich in plant fibers. While this function has lost its importance in modern humans, the appendix has adapted to perform other beneficial functions.
Of course, many people can live without an appendix, as the body can compensate for its absence. However, studies have suggested that people who have had theirs removed may sometimes suffer from an imbalance of bacteria or recurrent intestinal infections due to the loss of their stock of beneficial bacteria.
Appendicitis occurs when its opening is blocked by food residues, parasites, or bacterial overgrowth, leading to bacterial proliferation and inflammation of the appendix, and in some cases to its rupture, necessitating urgent surgical intervention.
Overall, the appendix can be considered additional evidence that the human body does not contain anything "extra" without a function.
Source: health.mail.ru
