Wednesday, February 20, 2008

Why You Probably Need To Cleanse Your Colon?

Do you have allergies, constipation, diarrhea, skin problems, headaches, fatigue, halitosis, bloat, lower backache, poor digestion, sluggishness, weight gain, or depression? If you have any of these symptoms, then you are probably among the millions suffering from colon problems. Some believe that colon cleansing is beneficial, while others suggest that this kind of purging can be destructive. They believe that the body will eliminate waste on its own at its own time.

The colon is made of six parts. These parts are called transverse, ascending and descending, ileocecal and cecum valves, the rectum, and the anus. These parts rid the body of toxins from food or the environment. The colon transfers nutrients into the blood stream through the walls of the large intestine, while pushing out waste. Digestive enzymes are released, the stool absorbs water, and many muscles and microorganisms work to maintain the digestive system. You can keep your colon's functions working well by drinking lots of water, eating healthy, exercising and getting lots of sleep.

The average person carries 7 to 25 pounds of fecal matter lodged in their intestines. Food transit time ranges from 75 to 100 hours. A normal colon is about 5 ft long and 2.5 in diameters. Healthy bowel movements should occur 1-3 times daily.

Colon conditions to be concerned about are irritable bowel syndrome, diverticulitis, ulcerative colitis, polyps, tumors, bleeding, hemorrhoids, abnormal growth, and fissures. If you have any of these conditions, see a doctor right away. Colorectal cancer starts in the cells that line the inside of the colon or rectum. Colorectal cancer may not cause any signs or symptoms. The stomach has lots of room for a tumor to grow unnoticed at first. You may only notice once there is blood and then blockage. Symptoms of colorectal cancer include a change in bowel habits, blood in the stool, diarrhea or constipation, narrow stools, Gas, bloating, or cramps, weight loss, lethargy, and vomiting. People over age 50 are at risk for colorectal cancer, especially if there is a family history of the disease. A high fat diet, alcohol consumption, smoking, and inactivity can also put a person at risk.

The best remedy is to get regular check-ups and make sure to get colon screenings particularly if you are over 50. Just remember cancer has no age limits and can affect people of all ages. I hope you have learned a little more about the colon and how to keep it healthy and clean for optimum living today and in the future.

Check out our review on bowtrol here:
http://www.squidoo.com/bowtrolreviewed