The colon is another term for the large intestine, a part of the body essential to the process of digestion. A healthy colon keeps the digestive system moving regularly like clockwork. A colon that is not healthy due to polyps or cancerous growths is not able to do its job well, and produces symptoms such as pain and constipation. Fiber is a staple in any colon-healthy diet, as fiber keeps solid matter moving through the colon and creates bulk within the stool to combat constipation. Many kinds of food contain fiber and are good to eat for a healthy colon. The Mayo Clinic reports that eating a wide range of vitamins and minerals can help prevent colon cancer, so no matter what you eat, it's important to vary your diet as much as possible.
Whole Grains
Whole grains are a type of insoluble fiber, meaning that the fiber does not dissolve in water. Whole grains such as brown rice, whole wheat bread, nuts and whole wheat pastas all contain insoluble fiber and promote movement of food through the colon. When choosing whole grain products to eat, it's helpful to think "brown" instead of "white." Refined flours, rices, breads and pasta are usually white and do not contain as much fiber as their whole-grain, brown counterparts.
Legumes
Legumes--beans, peas and lentils--are rich in fiber and part of a colon-healthy diet. According to the National Academy of Science Institute of Medicine, men should eat between 30 and 38 g of fiber daily while women require 21 to 25 g. Legumes provide a hefty portion of recommended daily allowances in just a small serving. One cup of kidney beans contains 13 g of fiber; an equivalent measure of split peas provides more than 16 g.
Fresh Produce
Fresh fruits and vegetables are important for colon health, not only because many of them contain fiber. Fruits and vegetables of all kinds contain several vitamins and minerals, providing the daily balance that is recommended for a healthy colon. Eating apples, pears and potatoes with the skins on can provide a healthy dose of fiber, as well as raspberries, broccoli and green beans. Blueberries and strawberries are rich in vitamins and antioxidants that are beneficial to overall health.
Low-Fat Choices
Choosing low-fat foods may keep your colon healthy. The Mayo Clinic suggests eating foods that are low in saturated fats, including part-skim dairy foods and lean proteins. Fat can slow the digestion down, increasing the risk of uncomfortable symptoms and colon cancer.
Water
Drinking water is important for colon health. Water softens stools, wards off constipation and sends waste products through the digestive system efficiently. Try to drink at least eight 8 oz. glasses of water each day. Use lemon or sugarless flavorings if drinking plain water is difficult.
