Why is Colon Health so important?

We very rarely think about our digestive systems as we go about our lives. We know it’s there and that it’s important, but unless we’re sick or experiencing discomfort, we take it for granted.

We often try to treat symptoms, yet we fail to take the steps necessary to keep our digestive systems healthy.

What exactly does the digestive system do?

This complex part of the human body performs two vital functions:

• absorbing nutrients
• providing a barrier against potentially harmful
  substances and microorganisms¹

A large part of the immune system, which keeps the body healthy, is found in the digestive tract. So it’s easy to see how digestive problems can cause significant health issues for the body.

At the heart of the digestive system is the colon, or large intestine, which is on average six feet long. Partly digested food enters the colon from the small intestine. The colon then removes water and nutrients and stores the rest as waste that is later passed into the rectum and out of the body².

There are several ways to maintain good intestinal health³:

• Maintain a healthy and balanced diet full of fruits, vegetables and fiber and low on fats
• Exercise regularly
• Manage stress
• Get the proper amount of sleep

The benefits of a healthy colon are many. They include a reduced occurrence of bloating, gas, diarrhea and constipation. They also include a reduced risk of colitis.

¹Cleveland Clinic - http://my.clevelandclinic.org/anatomy/digestive_system/hic_The_Structure_and_Function_of_the_Digestive_System.
²National Cancer Institute, for About.com
³American Gastroenterological Association