The colon's main function is to process liquid waste material into a manageable amount of solid stool for evacuation. Several disorders of the colon, or bowel, can occur, including functional disorders like constipation or diarrhea, or structural disorders such as diverticular disease, polyps or cancer. Dietary foods and supplements can aid in improving the health of the colon.
Fiber
Foods that help maintain a healthy colon include those high in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains and beans. The Mayo Clinic states that dietary fiber is best known for its ability to relieve constipation; however a high-fiber diet may also help to prevent diverticular disease and hemorrhoid development. Dietary fiber contains the parts of foods that the body can't digest or absorb. Insoluble and soluble fiber are the two types that reduce constipation.
Flaxseed
Flaxseed comes from the plant Linum lisitatissumum and is used for medicinal or dietary purposes. According to Medline Plus, flaxseed is used by people for many conditions related to the colon, including irritable bowel syndrome, constipation and diarrhea. The use of flaxseed is likely safe; some bloating, gas or abdominal pain could occur with ingestion. Medline Plus states that there is insufficient evidence to support the effectiveness of flaxseed use for the treatment of constipation or colon cancer.
Blond Psyllium
Medline Plus describes blond psyllium as an herb used to make medicine for colon health, utilized as a laxative and stool softener. The husks of the psyllium seeds absorb water to form a large mass, stimulating the bowels to move. Psyllium can also be used for irritable bowel syndrome, ulcerative colitis and dysentery. Medline Plus reports that using blond psyllium alone can relieve constipation as effectively as preparations combined with a stimulant laxative.
Other Foods and Herbs
Probiotics, or "good" bacteria, help to maintain the health of the intestines, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Glutamine, an amino acid supplement, helps the intestine function properly and may be beneficial for overall colon health. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish or fish oil supplements aid in colon inflammation and help prevent colon cancer, the UMMC reports. Several herbs the UMMC lists assist in colon health, including slippery elm, cat's claw, marshmallow and licorice.
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