The Ileocecal valve is to be found between the small intestine and large intestine. Nutrients are absorbed into the blood stream from the food we eat in the small intestine. The waste then passes into the large intestine via the ileocecal valve. The ileocecal valve has two functions:

1. To open to allow the waste to pass into the large intestine.
2. To close and prevent bacteria laden bacteria from re-entering the small intestine.

Sometimes the ICV can malfunction because of various factors. When this happens, toxins are able to re-enter the small intestine where they are reabsorbed into the blood stream, causing a spread of toxins throughout the body. This can increase the burden on the liver and the immune system, which have to work hard to get rid of the toxins and their effects. Toxins that are not eliminated from the body are stored in the joints, which can cause discomfort and arthritic type pain.

The main causes of ICV malfunction are:
Caffeine and caffeine based pain killers
refined sugars and sweeteners
Chocolate
Tobacco
Alcohol
Antibiotics
Stress
Lack of sleep
Poor posture
Lack of exercise
Not enough water
Pathogenic bacteria
Viruses
Candida

Symptoms of a closed or open ICV:
Palpitations
Headaches
Migraines
Pseudo-Menieres syndrome
Right shoulder pain
Nausea
Faintness
Fluid retention
Tinnitus
Pseudo sinus infection
Sudden thirst
Dark circles under the eyes
Fatique
Right leg weakness
General aches and pains