The colon plays an important role in the digestive system. The colon is the longest section of the large intestine. It is the final section of the digestive tract where what remains of your food is converted into feces to be eliminated. Toxic substances in the environment and food you eat are harmful to your colon. Eating a diet that is nutrient-rich can help in cleansing and keeping your colon functioning properly.
Symptoms
Following a colon cleansing diet can help when experiencing digestive problems. Symptoms include gas, flatulence, cramping, constipation and diarrhea. Stress, food and lifestyle are often triggers of a weak digestive system. Identify your trigger foods and eliminate them from your diet. Common trigger foods include chocolate, red meat, garlic, carbonated beverages, spicy foods, raw vegetables and soy foods.
Benefits of Bacteria
The good types of organisms that live in your colon are beneficial bacteria called probiotics. Probiotics break down your food so that nutrients can be easily absorbed. According to Jordan S. Bruin, good bacteria boost your immune system and can help protect you from diseases. If your colon is colonized by good bacteria, this prevents harmful bacteria and yeast from residing there. The most common types found in the colon include bifidobacterium and lactobacillus. Consume plain yogurt with active bacterial cultures or take a probiotic supplement for cleansing the colon.
Benefits of Soluble Fiber
Soluble fiber is a solution for those who suffer from constipation. It promotes regularity and adds bulk to stool in your colon. Foods that are high in soluble fiber include sweet potatoes, strawberries, bananas, cantaloupe, barley, ground flaxseed, oats and rice bran. Slowly increase the amount of fiber in your diet to avoid experiencing too much gas and bloating. Drink plenty of water to help move the stool to be excreted.
Benefits of Peppermint
In "Food Cures," the author suggests supplementing your colon cleansing diet with peppermint. Peppermint oil acts as an antimicrobial agent and stops the growth of harmful strains of bacteria in the colon. Peppermint also relaxes digestive muscles to ease abdominal pain, flatulence and diarrhea. Drinking a cup of peppermint tea reduces the possibility of heartburn and stress on the stomach.
Function of Water
According to medical dietitian Joy Bauer, you should drink at least eight glasses of water every day to cleanse the colon and help with digestion. Water keeps your stools moist so they can pass through the colon more easily. If you suffer from diarrhea, water helps to replenish lost fluids. Filtered water and naturally decaffeinated herbals teas should be your primary sources of fluids. Avoid carbonated beverages, alcohol and caffeine that get trapped in your colon and cause discomfort.
References
- "Essential Atlas of Anatomy"; Barron's Educational Series; 2000
- "Food Cures"; Joy Bauer MS, RD, CDN; 2007
- "The Maker's Diet for Weight Loss"; Jordan S. Bruin; 2009
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