darmtransit

Darmtransit refers to the movement of ingested material through the digestive tract, from mouth to anus. It encompasses gastric emptying, small intestinal transit, and colonic transit. The term is often used to describe total gut transit time, which varies widely among individuals. In healthy adults, estimates place total gut transit at roughly 24 to 72 hours, with gastric emptying about 0.5 to 3 hours, small intestinal transit 2 to 6 hours, and colonic transit highly variable.

Measurement methods include radiopaque marker studies, where markers are ingested and their progression is tracked by X-ray; scintigraphy using radiolabeled meals; and wireless motility capsules that record pressure, pH, and temperature as they move through the GI tract. Normal values depend on method and segment assessed.

Clinical relevance: Altered darmtransit is associated with constipation or diarrhea. Slow transit can contribute to functional constipation and certain colorectal motility disorders; rapid transit can underlie diarrheal syndromes. Conditions such as diabetes with autonomic neuropathy and hypothyroidism, as well as medications like opioids or anticholinergics, can slow or speed transit.

Factors influencing transit include diet (fiber intake), hydration, physical activity, age, sex, pregnancy, and comorbid conditions. Management of transit disorders focuses on treating underlying causes and may involve dietary changes, medications to modulate motility, or, in some cases, surgical considerations.