Colon Overview
The colon or the large intestine is a tubular structure which extends from the small intestine to the anus. The colon is responsible majorly for the re-absorption of water and other essential liquids and salts. Once the absorption occurs the waste products that are left behind are referred to as stool. The formation and collection of the stool once completed, an urge to defecate is created. The colon stores the stool in the region known as rectum until it passes out from the body. The ascending and the transverse parts of the colon are the region where the majority of the re-absorption process occurs. The remaining parts of the colon handle the storage and evacuation process.
How is Colon Function Important?
The colon plays a major role in the elimination of the solid waste products in our body. Colon functions as a waste removal structure in our body. Elimination of the waste products along with toxic substances is necessary for normal functioning of our body and better health.
The re-absorption of water and salts in the colon is a complex procedure which depends on numerous factors. Proper functioning of colon is altered by many factors such as age, diet, lifestyle, habits, medications we consume, and underlying disorders or conditions affecting the colon.
Colon Bacteria
Our colon is inhabited by millions of micro-organisms that are both beneficial and harmful to our body and colon function. When in good health, our body and the helpful micro-organisms keep the harmful ones in check. The helpful bacteria play a key role in breaking down of the end products of digestion and formation of stool. This harmony may be broken down due to the consumption of antibiotic medications for a long period. Numerous other medications may also have a similar role, while the role of diseases has also been established. This frequently results in alteration of the bowel habits, improper absorption of water and other elements and abdominal pain. Restoration of the helpful bacteria can be carried out to a certain extent with the certain medications that contain these organisms as spores (or seeds, in simple terms). Numerous supplements are also available over-the-counter that serve similar functions.
Diet
The diet we consume decides the health of the colon and colon function. Fibrous diet and drinking plenty of fluids helps in better formation of stools and easier removal. An improper diet may alter the normal functioning of the colon. You tend to suffer from loose stools, constipation or alteration in bowel habits if the diet does not contain substances that add bulk to the stool.
Age
Increasing age may have its effect on the colon function. As age progresses many of the organs in our body begin to slow down. Proper care is required to help the colon function normally in late adulthood. A well planned diet which has all the essential nutrients and fibrous foods is required to maintain the functioning of the colon. Older individuals are also prone to certain disorders of the colon which may affect its function. In case of babies and younger children, the colon is in the development stages which require proper planning of the diet.
Colon Diseases and Others
The presence of certain disorders such as inflammatory bowel disorders, infections and cancers affect the normal functions of colon. Such conditions either alter the functioning or tend to destroy certain portions of the colon thereby reducing its functional capabilities. The affected individuals usually tend to suffer from diarrhea and abdominal pain. Some of these disorders may also require removal of a portion of the colon or its complete removal. Smoking and excessive consumption of alcohol has also been associated with altered function of the colon.
Some Tips for Better Colon Function
- Eat a healthy diet containing all the essential nutrients along with fibrous foods
- Drink plenty of fluids
- Some people may need altered diet patterns in cases of colon disorders; speak to your doctor about diet planning
- Exercise regularly and try to lead a stress free life
- Avoid smoking and excessive consumption of alcohol
- Undergo periodic check-ups if you are aged above 50 years
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