Tips for a Healthy Colon

The colon (large intestine) is an important part of the human digestive system. Its role is to remove from waste both water and nutrients. Once removed, the colon is responsible for recirculating those items through the body.

A colon that is not functioning properly may cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, bloody stools, diarrhea or constipation, and/or fever. These symptoms may be signs of colon disorders including irritable bowel disease, diverticular disease or colon cancer.

Here are a few things you can do to keep your colon healthy:

• Drink Fluids: The human body is primarily made up of water so it should come as no surprise that drinking the recommended amount of water each day would keep your entire body, including your colon, healthy and functioning properly.
• Bowel Movements: It is important to have 1-2 bowel movements each day. Your colon was not designed to hold onto waste materials for long amounts of time so eliminating them from your body regularly keeps your colon free of toxins and healthy.
• Fiber: Fiber is an integral part of maintaining a balanced diet. Fiber-rich foods such as beans, breads, some fruits (including prunes, pears and raspberries), nuts and seeds help keep the colon clean.
• Exercise: All of your organs and systems – not just the colon – benefit from daily exercise. Along with a balanced diet, daily exercise keeps your organs, bones, muscles and joints healthy.
• Colon Screening: One of the keys to prevention for colon diseases, including colorectal cancer, is early detection through screening. BayCare provides colonoscopy services at many locations.

For more information or a physician referral, call (888) 487-9718 or find a doctor near you.