Your colon is part of your digestive system and is responsible for absorbing water and salt from food and eliminating it as waste. A healthy and well-balanced diet supports your overall health, including that of your colon. Some foods are particularly good for protecting your colon from many health conditions, including cancer.
Yogurt
Many types of yogurt contain probiotics, which are healthy types of bacteria that promote digestive function. Eating yogurt helps your colon counteract the bad bacteria that results in diarrhea and other digestive disturbance by increasing the presence of probiotics. Look for yogurt that contains live and active cultures. When you increase the amount of good bacteria in your colon, you allow it to enhance the mucous lining that keeps bad bacteria out, according to the Ask Dr. Sears website. Other fermented dairy foods, such as kefir, offer similar benefits. If you can't tolerate dairy foods or don't like them, talk with your doctor about a probiotic supplement.
Fiber Foods
Research is still being conducted, but some studies indicate that a high-fiber diet may prevent colon disease, according to MayoClinic.com. This is likely because fiber ferments in your colon, reducing the risk of hemorrhoids and diverticulitis. Additional studies show that fiber may help lower your chances of developing colon cancer, though results are mixed and cannot replace regular colon screenings. Sources of fiber include whole grains such as brown rice, oatmeal and whole-wheat bread, fruits, vegetables and beans.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are high in antioxidants, which are compounds that fight the free-radical damage that can lead to colon cancer. Exposure to free radicals happens when you are around toxins such as smoke and pollution. Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can counteract this damage and stop cancer growth, according to the National Cancer Institute. Brightly colored produce contains the most antioxidants, and including a variety of fruits and vegetables is the best way to increase your antioxidant intake. Some good choices include pumpkins, leafy green vegetables, squash, carrots, melon and tomatoes.
Vitamin D
More than 140,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with colon cancer each year, reports the Vitamin D Council. However, research has shown that increasing your vitamin D intake can help reduce your risk because it prevents cancer from growing. If you already have colon cancer, vitamin D can stop the blood flow to a tumor and prevent cancer cells from spreading. Foods that contain vitamin D include fortified milk, salmon, tuna, mackerel, beef liver, cheese, egg yolk and mushrooms.
References
- Ask Dr. Sears: Colon Health 101
- MayoClinic.com; Dietary Fiber: Essential for a Healthy Diet; November 2009
- National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse: Anatomic Problems of the Colon
- National Cancer Institute; Antioxidants and Cancer Prevention: Fact Sheet; July 2004
- Vitamin D Council: Colorectal Cancer
- Office of Dietary Supplements: Vitamin D
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