But Why: A Podcast for Curious Kids How does food turn into poop?
Nov 15, 2024
Mary Roach, the witty author of Gulp: Adventures on the Alimentary Canal, dives into the fascinating world of digestion. She unpacks why we poop and the science behind poop's brown color and smell. Listeners learn why fiber is crucial for digestion and how astronauts tackle bathroom breaks in space. Roach also highlights the surprising roles of poop in nature, discussing its benefits for flies and bacteria, making this a playful yet informative conversation on a topic that’s often avoided.
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Digestion Process
- Food is broken down in the stomach, but nutrients are mainly absorbed in the small intestine.
- The large intestine forms poop by removing water and processing unusable materials like fiber.
Waste Systems
- The body uses separate systems for processing liquid and solid waste.
- Kidneys and bladder handle liquids (pee), while the intestines handle solids (poop).
Poop Color
- Poop's brown color comes from bile and bilirubin, substances that break down fats and red blood cells.
- Diet can affect poop color; beets can make it red, and blue frosting can make it green.
