How can you improve your colon health through diet and lifestyle changes. What role do vitamins play in maintaining a healthy colon. Which screening tests are crucial for early detection of colon issues. Why is stress reduction important for colon health.

The Importance of a Pescovegetarian Diet for Colon Health

A pescovegetarian diet has emerged as a powerful ally in the fight against colon cancer. This eating plan, which combines vegetarian principles with the inclusion of fish, has shown remarkable potential in reducing the risk of colon-related issues.

Recent studies have revealed that individuals following a pescovegetarian diet experienced a significant 43% reduction in colon cancer risk. This impressive statistic can be attributed to the beneficial omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, which play a crucial role in maintaining colon health.

Key Components of a Pescovegetarian Diet

• Plant-based foods (fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains)
• Fish and seafood
• Limited or no red meat consumption
• Dairy products (optional)
• Eggs (optional)

Is red meat consumption linked to colon cancer risk? Indeed, numerous studies have established a correlation between excessive red meat intake and an increased risk of colon cancer. By adopting a pescovegetarian diet, you can significantly reduce this risk while still enjoying a diverse and nutritious eating plan.

The Role of Physical Activity in Promoting Digestive Health

Regular exercise is not just beneficial for overall fitness; it plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy colon. Physical activity aids proper digestion by promoting the movement of food through the digestive system and facilitating waste elimination.

In our increasingly sedentary lifestyles, many of us spend prolonged periods sitting at desks, in front of computers, or watching television. This lack of movement can impede the digestive process, making it more challenging for the body to process food effectively.

Simple Ways to Incorporate Movement into Your Daily Routine

1. Take short walks during work breaks
2. Opt for a post-dinner stroll
3. Use a standing desk or treadmill desk
4. Practice desk exercises or stretches
5. Take the stairs instead of the elevator

How much exercise is needed to support colon health? While any amount of physical activity is beneficial, aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. This can include brisk walking, cycling, swimming, or any other activity that gets your body moving.

The Vital Role of Vitamin D in Colon Health

Vitamin D has emerged as a crucial nutrient for maintaining a healthy colon. Often referred to as the “sunshine vitamin,” it plays a significant role in various bodily functions, including colon health.

Can vitamin D help prevent colon cancer? Research suggests that adequate vitamin D levels may indeed help reduce the risk of colon cancer. Studies have shown that individuals with higher levels of vitamin D in their blood have a lower risk of developing colorectal cancer.

Natural Sources of Vitamin D

• Sunlight exposure (15-20 minutes daily, with proper sun protection)
• Fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, tuna)
• Egg yolks
• Fortified foods (milk, orange juice, cereals)
• Mushrooms exposed to UV light

For those unable to get sufficient sunlight or dietary vitamin D, supplements may be recommended. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.

The Importance of Regular Colon Cancer Screening

Regular screening for colon cancer is one of the most effective ways to protect your colon health. Early detection through screening can identify potential issues before they become more serious, allowing for more successful treatment outcomes.

When should you start getting screened for colon cancer? Generally, it’s recommended to begin regular screenings at age 50. However, individuals with a family history of colon cancer or other risk factors may need to start screening earlier.

Common Colon Cancer Screening Methods

• Colonoscopy
• Fecal occult blood test (FOBT)
• Flexible sigmoidoscopy
• Virtual colonoscopy
• Stool DNA test

Discuss with your healthcare provider which screening method is most appropriate for you based on your individual risk factors and medical history.

The Impact of Lifestyle Habits on Colon Health

Our daily habits and lifestyle choices can significantly impact colon health. From the beverages we consume to the stress we experience, many factors can influence the functioning of our digestive system and colon.

How do common habits affect colon health? Excessive consumption of coffee, alcohol, and tobacco can lead to issues such as heartburn and stomach ulcers. These substances can irritate the digestive tract and potentially increase the risk of colon-related problems.

Habits to Avoid for Better Colon Health

• Excessive alcohol consumption
• Smoking
• Overconsumption of caffeine
• Overeating, especially late at night
• Prolonged periods of inactivity

In addition to physical habits, chronic stress can also negatively impact colon health. High levels of stress can disrupt the digestive process and potentially exacerbate existing colon issues.

Stress Reduction Techniques for Improved Colon Health

Managing stress is crucial for maintaining overall health, including the well-being of your colon. Chronic stress can lead to various digestive issues and potentially increase the risk of more serious colon problems.

What are effective ways to reduce stress for better colon health? There are numerous strategies you can employ to manage stress and promote a healthier digestive system:

• Practice mindfulness meditation
• Engage in regular yoga sessions
• Try deep breathing exercises
• Pursue relaxing hobbies (e.g., reading, painting, gardening)
• Ensure adequate sleep and rest

Incorporating these stress-reduction techniques into your daily routine can help support your colon health and overall well-being.

The Connection Between Stress and Digestive Health

Stress can have a direct impact on your digestive system, including your colon. When you’re stressed, your body enters a “fight or flight” mode, which can slow down digestion and potentially lead to issues such as constipation or diarrhea.

By managing stress effectively, you can help maintain a healthy balance in your digestive system and promote optimal colon function.

Mindful Eating Practices for Colon Health

In our fast-paced society, it’s easy to fall into the habit of eating quickly and mindlessly. However, the way we eat can have a significant impact on our digestive health, including the health of our colon.

Why is chewing food thoroughly important for colon health? Proper chewing is the first step in the digestive process. It breaks down food into smaller particles, making it easier for your digestive system to process. This can help reduce the workload on your colon and promote more efficient digestion.

Tips for Mindful Eating

1. Chew each bite thoroughly (aim for 30 chews per mouthful)
2. Eat slowly and savor your food
3. Avoid distractions while eating (e.g., TV, smartphones)
4. Listen to your body’s hunger and fullness cues
5. Choose nutrient-dense, colon-friendly foods

By adopting these mindful eating practices, you can support your digestive system and promote better colon health.

Optimizing Bathroom Habits for Colon Health

Our bathroom habits play a crucial role in maintaining colon health. Ignoring the urge to use the bathroom or rushing through bowel movements can lead to digestive issues and potentially more serious colon problems.

How can you improve your bathroom habits for better colon health? Consider the following tips:

• Respond promptly to the urge to have a bowel movement
• Allow sufficient time for bathroom visits
• Maintain a consistent bathroom schedule
• Use a squatting position or a toilet stool for easier bowel movements
• Stay hydrated to promote regular bowel movements

These simple changes in bathroom behavior can significantly impact your colon health and overall digestive well-being.

The Importance of Proper Posture During Bowel Movements

Did you know that your posture on the toilet can affect your colon health? Sitting in a more squatted position, with knees higher than hips, can help straighten the rectum and make bowel movements easier and more complete.

Consider using a toilet stool or squatting platform to achieve this position and promote healthier bowel movements.

By implementing these strategies – from adopting a pescovegetarian diet and increasing physical activity to managing stress and optimizing bathroom habits – you can take significant steps towards improving your colon health. Remember, small changes in your daily routine can lead to substantial benefits for your digestive system and overall well-being. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice on maintaining optimal colon health.

6 Things You Can Do to Promote Colon Health

When’s the last time you thought about your colon? Was it the last time you packed your own lunch, had a stomach ache, or maybe felt bloated after a restaurant meal?

If you’re like most people, the answer is “none of the above.” Most of us never think about our colons, even when they’re acting up or causing us pain!

For some of us, digestive discomfort has become a fact of life — like not getting enough sleep, or having too much to do at work. We complain about bloating and stomach pain, while assuming there’s nothing we can do to change it. Others avoid thinking about their colons, simply because it’s connected to unpleasant bodily functions — yet taking the time to push past the “yuck factor” and think about your colon can improve your health dramatically.

Just a few simple changes may be all it takes to boost your energy levels, improve your day-to-day comfort, and reduce your risk of colon cancer and other diseases.

1. Eat a Pescovegetarian Diet

You don’t necessarily have to go meat-free to have a healthy colon, but cutting down on red meats is a good idea. Multiple studies have linked the excessive consumption of red meat to a higher risk of colon cancer. You already know exercise and healthy lifestyle habits can help you avoid disease; but going pescovegetarian may be the best way to minimize your risk factors for good!

A new study indicates that the pescovegetarian diet — a vegetarian-based diet with a focus on adding fish to meals — is perfect for fighting back against colon cancer. The study found that those who ate a pescovegetarian diet saw a reduction in risk of around 43% — possibly because of the beneficial omega-3 fatty acids in fish.

2. Get Moving

Not only does physical activity keep you feeling great, but regular exercise aids in proper digestion — pushing food along your digestive system, and making the process of passing waste much easier.

Most of us spend hours each day in front of desks, computers, and television screens. Sitting down for most of your day puts a kink in the digestive process, actually making it harder for your body to process food. The result? When the times comes to go to the bathroom, your colon has a lot more work to do.

An easy fix is to simply walk a little bit each day — make a point to take a quick walk around the office mid-morning, or go for a stroll each night after dinner. Consider turning your evening walk into a family activity, for a nice bonding experience.

3. Give Your Body More Vitamin D

One of the best vitamins you can stock up on for colon health is vitamin D — you probably recognize it as the one that comes from the sun. Naturally, the best way to get it is to go outside!

Even if you work indoors for most of the day, it’s easier than you think to get more vitamin D into your system. All you need is around 20 minutes of daily exposure (wearing sunscreen to prevent burns), and you’ll have a well-nourished colon in no time. If you can’t get enough sun all year round, eat foods like fatty fish, bread, cereal, and milk to give your body a natural vitamin D boost; or, ask your doctor about vitamin D supplements.

4. Get Tested

Getting regular screening tests for colon cancer is one of the most effective ways you can protect yourself from this disease. Screening can catch problems early, when they’re the most treatable — so you can get back to living your life.

Most people start getting tested at the age of 50, but if you have a family history of colon cancer, or other risk factors in your medical history, you should get tested earlier. Speak to your doctor about colonoscopies, particularly if you experience ongoing constipation or diarrhea.

5. Avoid Bad Habits (Including Stress)

Everything from coffee to alcohol can impact the way your digestive system — and your colon, in particular — functions. Overindulging in these substances can quickly lead to issues like heartburn and stomach ulcers. If you have a bad habit related to cigarettes, alcohol, or other substances, look for resources to help you cut back and ultimately quit.

Bad habits don’t just involve physical substances. Many of us have a bad habit of allowing stress to invade our lives. Frequent anxiety and stress can push your digestive system into overdrive. Yoga and meditation practices lower stress for many people, while others find breathing techniques or relaxing hobbies — like reading, coloring, or brain puzzles — to be effective stress reducers.

Speaking of bad habits, remember to take time to relax and chew your meals. In our fast-paced society, we’re all prone to eating food as quickly as possible, but chewing is crucial when it comes to supporting your digestive system and colon. Experts recommend that you should chew each bite 30 times before swallowing!

6. Change Your Bathroom Behavior

No matter how busy you are — at work, at home, or on the move — if you feel a bowel movement coming, don’t hold it in! Find a bathroom as quickly as you can. Holding onto your movements can be dangerous, because this allows for the release of toxins back into your body.

If you struggle with bathroom movements, there may be a problem with the way you’re sitting. Evidence suggests that bathroom posture can be a serious problem. Research shows that squatting is not only more natural and efficient, but can help you to avoid digestive disturbances and hemorrhoids, too.

Give Your Colon the Consideration it Deserves

The American Cancer Society (ACS) estimates almost 100,000 colon cancer diagnoses are made each year. An even bigger number of people suffer with aches, pains, and discomfort because we don’t think carefully enough about the food we eat. Your colon is far more than just a way to get rid of waste — it’s essential to your overall health!

Consider your colon when you sit down for a meal, step outside for a bit of sunshine, or hold back from having that extra drink. You’ll be pleased to see how much better you feel each day when you promote good digestive health. When you take care of your colon, it can do its job to take care of you.

7 Vitamins to Avoid Colon Cancer: Las Vegas Gastroenterology: Gastroenterology

7 Vitamins to Avoid Colon Cancer: Las Vegas Gastroenterology: Gastroenterology

Now accepting Telehealth appointments. Schedule a virtual visit.

We at Las Vegas Gastroenterology make it our business to offer the best care in preventative diagnostics and cutting edge technologies to diagnose colon cancer. Above all, we want to educate you, the patient, who we have vested interest in, about how to avoid colon cancer. There are many things you can do to prevent colon cancer among which are diet, exercise, and avoiding red meats and fatty meats, and taking vitamin D.

From The Susan Cohan Colon Cancer Foundation comes these real life ways you can prevent con cancer:

Vitamins & Supplements: Using vitamins to prevent cancer is called chemoprevention. Antioxidants have been studied for their effects in cancer prevention and risk reduction. They may defend against cell damage caused by unstable molecules, known as free radicals. Beta-carotene, lycopene, vitamins C, E, and A, and other substances are antioxidants, and are found in tea, red wine, and chokeberries or Anthocyanin-rich extract.

Aspirin has been linked to some studies in cancer prevention. This is because aspirin can block the enzyme cyclooxygenase2 (COX-2), which is produced by many tumors. A Recent study by the University of Oxford found that 75 mg. of aspirin taken daily for five years lowered the risk of colorectal cancer by 24 per cent and the risk of dying from colon cancer by 35 per cent. There are side effects associated with an aspirin plan.

• Calcium, when taken with vitamin D, is thought to be linked to cancer prevention. Daily use of calcium carbonate, resulted in a 15 per cent reduction in colorectal adenomatous polyp recurrence. Calcium is commonly found in dark green vegetables, some grains, legumes, and nuts. Calcium supplements, when taken daily may protect against colon polyps for lactose sensitive individuals.
• Curcumin has been studied for its effects in cancer prevention. Curcumin is a type of ginger commonly used in Indian food. It has great anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties. The Study suggests taking 3.6 grams of curcumin daily.
• Also eating curries that rich in turmeric are great as well.
• Garlic is a bulb that may reduce the risk of developing cancer, particularly gastrointestinal tract cancers. Garlic contains antibacterial properties, and may be able to prevent the formation and activation of cancer-causing substances, and boost DNA repair.
• Folic Acid and B Vitamins may also aid in colon cancer prevention. Recent research suggests a deficiency in folic acid has been linked to cancer.
• Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids-Omega-3 PUFA’s are healthy fatty acids and may be linked to colon cancer prevention. They are predominantly found in fish and nuts.
• Selenized Yeast-A recent Nutritional Prevention of Cancer Study found a statistically significant reduction in the cases of colorectal cancer, as well as other cancers, through taking selenized yeast.
• Soy-Recent studies suggest that soy may be helpful in preventing colon cancer. The studies were most effective with postmenopausal women. It is important to note than many people are sensitive to soy. Please consult your doctor before consuming.
• Statins-Are drugs that lower cholesterol and certain fats in the blood. Statin drugs are being studied for the prevention and treatment of cancer. There are many side effects with these drugs and the use of statins needs further research.
• Vitamin D is really not a vitamin at all, but in fact a fat-soluble prohormone that has been linked to the reduced risk of colon cancer. The results have not been consistent though. Vitamin D exists naturally in sunlight, eggs, fish, oil and store bought supplements.

Other vitamins such as Reishi mushrooms, IP-6, Magnesium and Citrus Bioflavanoids are hinted to have colon cancer prevention properties but still require further research.

If you are diagnosed with colon cancer, our gastroenterologists we will assertively do everything we know how to do to remove it. Our Gastroenterology doctors Dr. Noel Fajardo, is a specialist in Gastroenterology and Hepatology at Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester in MN. He also holds an advanced Fellowship Degree in Gastroenterology Motility and is ABIM-Board Certified in GI and IM.

We have two of the best GI Doctors in Las Vegas on our staff:

Dr. Filippo Cremonini, MD, PhD, MSc is a graduate of the Catholic University of Rome, Italy. He finished his residency in Internal Medicine. He finished his residency at Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, MN, where he obtained a Master’s degree in Clinical Research and earned a PhD in Gastroenterintestinal Physiology. He specialized in Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and holds a title of full Professor of Gastroenterology with the Italian Ministry of University MIUR.

Dr. Cremonini is ABIM-Board Certified in GI and IM. He has written over 150 publications in the field of Gastroenterology and received numerous awards for research in Europe and in the USA. Dr. Cremonini has appeared on KTNV Channel 13 News in Las Vegas.

TOFA 2017 celebrates remarkable FilAms who influence, inspire (Part 1)

By Cristina DC Pastor In celebration of Filipino American History Month, The Outstanding Filipinos in America (TOFA) presents this year’s accomplished individuals with varied talents, superb achievements, and who make service to the community…

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ABS-CBN, The Filipino Channel, in cooperation with Las Vegas Gastroenterology, airs this month three Public Service Announcements featuring three notable Fil-Ams in Nevada.

Las Vegas doctor raises awareness on colon cancer

Noel Fajardo, a Las Vegas-based gastroenterologist, has visited the Philippines recently to raise awareness on colon cancer and its early prevention. Fajardo, a graduate of the University of the Philippines College of Medicine in 1997, says early…

US-based Pinoy doctor advocates for colorectal cancer awareness in PH

United States-based gastroenerologist Dr. Noel R. Fajardo is aiming to raise awareness of colorectal cancer so that more people will learn about that the early detection and diagnosis of this cancer that may very well save their lives. If his…

Dr. Noel Fajardo, gastroenterologist

Las Vegas Endoscopy Day” is sunny. Dr. Noel Fajardo stands outside his new endoscopy center, squinting in the afternoon sunlight between his longtime partner, former BIDMC-Harvard Medical School professor Dr. Filippo Cremonini,…

Named important vitamin for gut health

09/29/2021 at 10:10

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Immunity boosting is not the only function of vitamin C. In fact, this substance can help reduce the likelihood of a number of serious diseases and prevent vision loss, and several studies have shown that the vitamin is also associated with gut health.

According to Gut Microbes, one of its main effects is to maintain a balance between good and bad bacteria in the gut microbiome. Vitamin C has been reported to increase microbiota diversity and play a larger role in gut health compared to vitamins B and D.

That said, a 2019 study found that vitamin C can enhance gut barrier function. An article published in Redox Biology states that this helps the body absorb nutrients and protect against certain toxins.

Vitamin C is involved in the process of wound healing and the formation and repair of vital body tissues, shared details at the Mayo Clinic. Doctors have concluded that it also reduces the negative effects of free radicals, which can lead to heart disease and cancer.

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Six Natural Ways to Improve Colon Health｜ iHerb Blog

The information in this blog has not been verified by your local public health authority and is not intended as a diagnosis, treatment, or medical advice.
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The large intestine is an amazing organ that makes up approximately 20% of the digestive tract. It is involved in the absorption of vitamins (for example, B12), the synthesis of nutrients such as vitamin K, biotin and short-chain fatty acids, regulates the flow of water and electrolytes into the bloodstream, removes by-products of cellular metabolism and hormone production.

If you don’t know much about the colon, you are not alone. Many do not know about the various functions performed by the colon on a daily basis for the body to work. For example, did you know that the colon helps maintain bone health, immune system function, blood clotting, and more?

In this article, we will cover the following topics: what is the colon, how it affects overall health, how to keep the colon in good condition through proper nutrition and lifestyle, regular colon checks.

Structure and functions of the large intestine

The large intestine is a hollow tube of muscle tissue, the length of which in an adult is on average about 1. 5 m. the transverse colon, the descending colon, and the sigmoid colon that passes into the rectum.

Each section of the colon plays a role in maintaining the health of the body and has specific functions due to its structure. For example, the ascending, transverse, and descending colons all have haustrae, protrusions that look like small pockets. The word “gaustra” is derived from the Latin “haustrum” – “capacity” or “bucket”, and that’s exactly what they look like! Gaustras retain the mixture of digested food and water from the small intestine long enough to extract all the necessary nutrients through the lining of the colon, after which the food continues through the colon until it is excreted in the form of feces.

Bacteria and other micro-organisms also live in haustra, helping to extract nutrients from food. For example, some bacteria extract biotin and vitamin K from ingested food. Other bacteria ferment fiber to form short-chain fatty acids, such as butyrate, which fuels cellular metabolism in the lining of the colon.

Each haustra is internally lined with an absorbent mucosa composed of colonocytes. Colonocytes help regulate the levels of potassium, sodium, water, chloride, bicarbonate, and other electrolytes in and out of the colon. This, in turn, helps to regulate the level of electrolytes in the blood.

In front of the ascending, transverse and descending colons is the first section of the large intestine – the caecum. It is located directly above the right pelvic bone. You may even be able to feel it and move it when it is full of food. To the touch, it looks like a small balloon, filled to capacity with water.

The caecum is connected to the appendix and has a special valve through which digested food flows from the small intestine and nutrients are supplied to the bloodstream. This valve is called the ileocecal valve and has two important functions. Firstly, this is where the assimilation of vitamin B12 takes place, if everything is in order with the intestines. Secondly, it prevents the back flow of food from the large intestine into the small intestine. We will discuss this in more detail in the description of bowel diseases, but for now we note that the violation of this valve is fraught with poor health and the so-called bacterial overgrowth syndrome (SIBO) in the small intestine, as well as other problems.

As you can see, the large intestine has many divisions, layers and anatomical structures that ensure the performance of its functions.

‌‌How the condition of the colon affects overall health

The colon is responsible for the absorption and production of nutrients, as well as for the removal of waste from the body. Obviously, these processes are extremely important for health!

The large intestine is involved in the production of vitamin K and biotin

The large intestine is home to many bacteria that synthesize vitamin K and biotin from food. Vitamin K is necessary for the formation of several blood clotting factors, due to which a wound forms a crust that stops bleeding. Certain types of vitamin K (eg, K2) are involved in bone repair and calcium metabolism. When food sources of vitamin K are deficient in the diet (such as natto and green leafy vegetables), bacterial production becomes even more important to prevent deficiency.

Biotin is essential for blood sugar regulation, hair, skin and nail health, and zinc levels. Like vitamin K, it is produced by bacteria in the colon, which can be used to compensate for deficiency in the diet. Biotin deficiency can cause rashes, depression, epilepsy, hair loss, nail problems, and other ailments.

Therefore, it is worth supporting the reproduction of these beneficial bacteria in the colon.

Mineral and fluid absorption

The large intestine is involved in the regulation of fluid levels in the body by absorbing water from ingested food. In addition, the lining of the colon extracts electrolytes (such as potassium, calcium, sodium, chloride, and others) from food and transfers them to the bloodstream. These minerals are essential for conducting electrical signals in nerves, starting enzyme reactions to generate cellular energy, maintaining fluid balance and blood pressure in the cardiovascular system. A lack of any of these minerals for any reason (malnutrition or poor colon health) can seriously impair health, and especially worsen the condition of the heart and nerves.

Getting rid of toxins

I wish more people would understand that if the liver removes toxins from the blood, it is the colon that removes them from the body. The liver processes the by-products of enzymatic reactions, performs two steps in their processing in hepatocytes, and converts waste products into bile, which eventually enters the digestive tract. Once in the digestive system, toxins in the form of bile combine with fiber. After entering the large intestine, this mixture of fiber and bile must be converted into feces and leave the body with a bowel movement (which must occur at least once a day for proper detoxification). If the intestines are healthy, and you eat right, then this happens by itself.

‌‌What are the problems with the colon

Inflammatory bowel disease

Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis are inflammatory diseases that affect the condition of the colon membranes. They are fraught with ulcers, bleeding, impaired absorption of nutrients, pain and other symptoms. Chronic inflammation and damage to the lining of the colon can lead to nutritional deficiencies. If left untreated, these diseases are also associated with an increased risk of colon cancer.

Colon cancer

Colon and rectal cancer is the third most common cancer in the world. In 2020, about two million people are estimated to have colon cancer. Risk factors for colon cancer include a low-fiber diet, physical inactivity, alcohol consumption, being overweight, and vitamin D deficiency. All of these factors can affect DNA synthesis in the colon and other tissues. Violations of DNA synthesis are the main cause of the appearance and growth of tumors, so it is important to maintain the normal process of DNA synthesis in the colon.

Impaired motility

Food moves through the large intestine due to the rhythmic contraction of the intestinal muscles and the exchange of water and electrolytes with neighboring vessels and tissues. The process of moving food through the intestines is called intestinal motility or peristalsis. When it is disturbed, food passes through the intestines either too quickly (leading to diarrhea) or too slowly (leading to constipation). Too fast or slow movement of food can be called a violation of intestinal motility. If this condition becomes chronic, the colon becomes less able to perform its basic functions of producing and absorbing nutrients and eliminating toxins.

Dysbacteriosis and SIBO

The gut microflora is a delicate balance of a wide variety of micro-organisms, including bacteria and yeast. In general, a large amount of “good” bacteria (probiotics) helps prevent the growth of pathogenic or opportunistic bacteria and yeast that can cause intestinal problems.

Entire scientific fields are devoted to the study of the microbiome, and a lot of research has been published on this topic! I explain this to my patients as follows: all bacteria need fuel to survive. And during metabolism, these bacteria produce by-products. Some of these by-products are useful to us. Other products, such as methane and hydrogen, can cause problems if they are produced in too much or in the wrong place.

In general, one should strive to maintain a large number of beneficial bacteria in the large intestine, as well as their presence there and their absence in other parts of the body. A healthy colon and ileocecal valve is the key to preventing bacteria from moving from the colon to unwanted places, such as the small intestine. When colon bacteria enter the small intestine, gas, bloating, spasms, malabsorption of nutrients, diarrhea, constipation, and other problems can occur. These microbiome disturbances and associated symptoms are collectively referred to as small intestinal bacterial overgrowth syndrome, or SIBO. If you’ve never heard of him, you’re in luck! Say thank you to your colon for keeping bacteria in the right places.

Infections

Sometimes pathogenic organisms settle in the large intestine, turning a healthy organ into a focus of infection. Many have heard of the Clostridium difficile bacteria, which causes an infection that, if left untreated, can lead to death. The best defense against colon infections is to eat right, drink enough water, and maintain a healthy microbiome that can deal with pathogens when encountered. Below I will show you how to achieve this.

‌‌Six scientifically proven ways to prevent colon problems and take care of it in the long term

The colon requires care no less than other organs and parts of the body. She also needs regular care based on scientific facts. You won’t always be able to see the result of this care, because the colon is out of sight, but you can definitely feel it – in the form of healthier digestion, regular bowel movements, and hassle-free toilet visits.

In addition, taking care of the colon will affect all body systems. For your efforts, you can be rewarded with general health promotion, clearer skin, a stable nervous system, and a number of other effects. By following the tips below, you can take care of your colon on a daily basis.

1. Eat enough fiber

Every article on colon cancer prevention notes that increasing dietary fiber is directly related to colon health and reduced risk of colorectal cancer. This is due to the fact that fiber maintains the balance of the intestinal microflora, enhances its peristalsis and provides the necessary volume of feces to move toxins through the colon and remove them from the body. Aim to consume at least 25 grams of fiber per day to maintain good colon health. People who consume about 50 grams of fiber a day have the least risk of developing colon cancer compared to any other population group.

2. Drink water

The large intestine constantly mixes water, digested food, fiber, and electrolytes to form feces. If you drink little water, the feces move through the intestines worse and can get stuck. Then constipation develops. Many do not know, but constipation is considered to have a bowel movement less than once a day! Drinking enough water every day is the main way to give stool the right consistency for easy and regular passage through the colon. Perhaps you, like many of my clients, need to be reminded to drink water. Turn on notifications on your phone, use “smart” water bottles – any way will do! You can use water as part of drinks that are delicious for you, such as tea. If you have kidney disease or other chronic conditions, check with your doctor about how much water you need per day.

3. Exercise

Feces move through the large intestine due to the rhythmic contraction of the intestinal muscles. However, the mobility of the body also helps here! Walking, running, jumping and bending cause the intestines to move, which promotes healthy intestinal motility. In addition, physical activity improves the movement of lymph, thereby enhancing detoxification. Unsurprisingly, studies have shown a relationship between low mobility and long-term deterioration of the colon. Don’t put yourself at risk!

4. Sleep well

Sleep is essential for health. Sleep deprivation increases the risk of colitis and other colon problems. See your doctor if you are unable to sleep well.

5. Do not smoke or drink alcohol

Smoking and drinking are associated with an increased risk of colon cancer and inflammatory bowel disease. To improve colon health, work with your doctor to create a smoking cessation plan and try to drink fewer than three drinks per week.

6. Regularly check the condition of the colon

The colon is not visible from the outside, so it is extremely important to have regular check-ups with a doctor. Modern technologies make it possible to check the colon quickly and easily. There are several types of these tests, from home tests to colonoscopies. The doctor will determine which tests are best for you, but if you are reading this article from home right now, then I would like to advise you on the following.

Colonoscopy is safe, effective, and the only way to look directly inside the colon and detect serious problems like colon cancer long before such problems become life-threatening. If your doctor recommends a colonoscopy, follow his advice. An estimated 53,000 people have died of colorectal or colon cancer in the US alone this year alone. Many of these deaths could have been avoided by early detection of the problem. Don’t skip regular checks. Listen to your doctor if he insists on a colonoscopy. It takes a whole day to prepare for a colonoscopy. It is not comfortable? Of course. But this is a great opportunity to cleanse the colon, perform a natural detox and make sure that there is no cancer. Do your colonoscopy as directed by your doctor, and if you’re older than 50, do it regularly. Also, sleep well, eat right, eat enough fiber, stop smoking, get enough vitamin D, and move. It will definitely benefit your colon and other organs.

When it comes to colon health and reducing the risk of colorectal cancer and other diseases, everything is in your hands! I hope this article inspires you to take care of your colon and other organs with proven natural prevention methods.

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