Why do we have an appendix?
Show answer & explanation
Answer: May house beneficial gut bacteria
May house beneficial gut bacteria ✓ — Correct! While often called 'useless,' the appendix may serve as a safe house for beneficial gut bacteria. After illness disrupts gut flora, these bacteria can repopulate the intestines. However, people can live normally without it.
Filters toxins from food — Wrong. The appendix doesn't filter toxins—that's mainly the liver's job. The appendix is a small pouch connected to the large intestine.
Has no function at all — Wrong. While we can survive without it, research suggests it may help maintain healthy gut bacteria populations as a bacterial reservoir.