The colon is the part of the digestive system between the small intestine and the rectum. It absorbs water, potassium and fat soluble vitamins from solid waste before it is eliminated from the body. Maintaining a healthy colon prevents diseases such as irritable bowel syndrome and colon cancer.
High Fiber
A diet that is high in fiber is essential for a healthy colon. You need two different forms of fiber; soluble fiber, which dissolves in water to form a jelly-like substance; and insoluble fiber, which passes through the digestive system intact and helps to bulk up the stool. The Mayo Clinic recommends beans, carrots, barley, psyllium, peas and citrus fruits as sources of soluble fiber. Sources of insoluble fiber include whole wheat, nuts, raw vegetables and bran.
Eating the Right Meat
According to Medical News Today, colorectal cancer is the third most common form of cancer for adults in the United States. You can significantly reduce the risk of colorectal cancer by eating the right types of meat. Choosing non-red meat such as pork or choosing chicken or turkey and eating lean cuts can help maintain a healthy colon.
Calcium
Medical News Today explains the importance of calcium in your diet, not just for healthy bones and teeth, but also for a healthy colon. Natural sources of calcium include low fat milk, cruciferous vegetables, sardines, salmon, almonds, tofu, soy, cottage cheese and yogurt. Calcium can also be taken as a dietary supplement. If you considering taking a calcium supplement, consult your physician first.
Water
Drinking plenty of water every day is important for colon health because it helps to maintain regular bowel function. The Colon Health Net recommends drinking at least eight glasses of water each day. Drinking water regularly can also help prevent the build-up of fat in your body.
Colon Cleansing
Colon cleansing, or colonic irrigation, is an alternative therapy aimed at removing fecal matter and toxins from the colon. Colon cleansing can take the form of a water enema or can be an oral therapy in which herbal supplements are used. Proponents of colon cleansing believe that the walls of the large intestine are lined with tapped, putrefied feces that contain toxins and parasites and lead to ill-health. According to Michael Picco, M.D., there is very little medical evidence to support the benefits of colon cleansing. Many doctors believe that the process can actually be harmful. If you are considering colon cleansing you should first consult your physician.
