The appendix has gained a reputation as a useless organ. Research now shows that the appendix is an important member a member of the digestive track team. BOTTOM LINE: You actually need your appendix to help aid with intestinal distress.
When the gastrointestinal tract or intestine is affected by a bout of diarrhea or other distress that cleans out the intestines, the good bacteria in the appendix repopulate the digestive system and keep you healthy. But in our modern society, less of these good bacteria are needed due to better hygiene practices, which may explain why the appendix had gained a reputation as a useless organ.
With all the current concern on probiotics and digestive health, researchers are studying the appendix for its role as a part of the digestive system.