What is colon cancer?

Colon cancer, which is a cancerous condition of the colon, has increased in frequency in recent years. Colon cancer is currently the second highest cause of death from cancer among American women and men. Often colon cancer begins as a small polyp growing in the cells along the lining of the colon. Not all polyps are cancerous, but some polyps could eventually become cancerous.

Medical experts believe that the current Western diet, which is high in fat and deficient in fiber, can contribute to a higher risk of developing colon cancer. Other risk factors for colon cancer include:

Obesity,
Lack of exercise,
A family history of colon cancer or polyps,
A personal history of polyps,
Smoking,
Inflammatory bowel disease.

The symptoms of colon cancer may be minor and hard to detect in the early stages. Some warning signs can include:

Patches of dark blood in stool,
Rectal bleeding,
Persistent constipation,
Frequent diarrhea,
Abdominal bloating,
Abdominal discomfort,
A feeling that the bowel is never completely emptied,
Fatigue,
Anemia,
Loss of appetite,
Unexplained weight loss.

Current treatment for colon cancer depends on a number of factors but often includes a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and biological therapy.

Colon polyps – Are colon polyps dangerous?

Most polyps in the colon are not cancerous, but certain types of polyps have a tendency to become cancerous at a later date. There are two common types of polyps which are found in the colon:

Hyperplastic polyps, which if small or on the left side of the colon, carry little risk of developing into cancer;

Adenomatous polyps, which if not removed, may become cancerous.

As a precaution, most polyps detected during a colonoscopy or other medical procedures are removed.

How to prevent colon cancer

One of the best ways to prevent colon cancer is to be screened regularly. Since it generally takes more than ten years from the time that polyps start to develop till they become cancerous, regular screening can detect and eliminate polyps before they have the chance to become dangerous.

Diet and physical activity level are both known risk factors which contribute to the risk of developing colon cancer. Healthy changes to the diet and exercise program can reduce the likelihood of an occurrence of colon cancer. People who consume diets that are high in fruits and vegetables have been found to be at a lower risk for colon cancer, and a diet which emphasizes whole grains over refined grains can also help to prevent colon cancer. Learn more about colon cleansing foods.

As recommended by the American Cancer Society, a minimum of 30 minutes of physical activity five days a week or more can also help to lower the risk of developing colon cancer.

Other lifestyle changes which can reduce the chance of colon cancer are to stop smoking, to avoid the excessive consumption of alcohol, and to lose weight if obese.

Colon cleansing for colon health

Another routine to ensure that the colon is healthy is to participate in regular cleansing of the colon. Built-up toxins and waste products can contribute to an unhealthy environment within the colon, but an effective colon cleansing program can help to flush out unwanted residues and ensure that the colon is clean. Look for proven cleansing products which feature all-natural ingredients, and be sure to select a colon cleansing regimen which contains plenty of fiber, which can help to increase the transit speed of matter through the colon. Check out our reviews.

Take the FIRST step to cleaning your colon

Cleansing your colon starts with eating a high-fiber diet and drinking plenty of water. This helps keep you regular and puts your body back on track.

But your body can't do it all.

When you're ready to cleanse your body of toxins and undigested food, then you're ready to take the next step in colon cleansing. Keep in mind that colon cleansing isn't for everyone – only for those who want optimal health.