Having a Healthy and Properly Functioning Colon Is Vital To a Long and Healthy Life

Last Updated on Saturday, 8 October 2011 03:11 Written by Natural Health Team Saturday, 8 October 2011 03:11

Health Information about Having a Healthy and Properly Functioning Colon Is Vital To a Long and Healthy Life

I strongly advocate colon health, my late uncle died of cancer of the colon in the year of 2000 and since his passing I have advised friends, family and aquaintances I come across to look after that part of the body.   

The colon is the last portion of the digestive system in most vertebrates it extracts water and salt from solid wastes before they are eliminated from the body. In humans, the colon consists of four sections: the ascending colon, the transverse colon, the descending colon, and the sigmoid colon.

Though not exhaustive here is a basic list of recommendations that will help you develop a healthier colon and lower digestive tract (and improve your overall health as well):

Eat plenty of fiber, this is one of the keys in maintaining a healthy and regular lower digestive system (breads and cereals in abundance every day)   You’ve probably heard it plenty of times before but drink large amounts of water, (at least 6-8 normal sized glasses per day for normal activities, 12-18+ glasses if you’re burning up a sweat in the gym). Your body will allocate a certain percentage of this water to cleanse the walls of the colon.  Enjoy a balanced diet that includes 2-3 servings of lean unsalted red and white meat per week, at least 1-2 serves of fish per week, cereals, plenty of fruit and vegetables, soya beans, some types of nuts, eggs, whey powder and (contrary to what some health professionals say) a moderate amount of light, lower fat diary products. E.g. instead of full-cream milk or yoghurt, choose light or “skim” milk and yoghurt, (dairy has 12 essential vitamins, nutrients and beneficial bacteria that are good for your entire digestive system).  If you can afford it, embrace food that is organically-produced as this limits the amounts of toxins and other undesirable elements that enter your digestive system. Avoid fad or other radical diets, as they don’t provide enough of the essential nutrients, vitamins and minerals your colon needs to stay healthy. Cut down on salty, processed foods, (such as the meats found in hamburgers in the major retail chains). Try to be as active as possible; at least 20-30 minutes of moderate exercise per day should be your normal routine. Focus not just on cardiovascular training (treadmill, running, walking etc) but also moderate strength training as well, (weights, sit-ups, push ups, crunches, bench press, etc).

If you follow these simple ideas you should be on the way to achieving better lower digestive and colon health.

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