{"id":13458,"date":"2025-03-10T16:09:35","date_gmt":"2025-03-10T16:09:35","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.cooperhealth.org\/ehealth\/?p=13458"},"modified":"2025-03-11T20:07:05","modified_gmt":"2025-03-11T20:07:05","slug":"5-things-your-colon-wants-you-to-know","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.cooperhealth.org\/ehealth\/2025\/03\/10\/5-things-your-colon-wants-you-to-know\/","title":{"rendered":"5 Things Your Colon Wants You to Know"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"5<\/p>\n

March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month, and it\u2019s a great time to learn how you can keep this essential organ healthy \u2013 and reduce your risk of colon cancer.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Para leer en Espa\u00f1ol, por favor haga clic aqu\u00ed<\/a><\/p>\n

You may not realize it, but the choices you make every day and the habits you maintain have a significant impact on your colon\u2019s well-being. Your colon works hard to process the food you eat, extract nutrients, and eliminate waste. It’s a tough job, but essential to your overall health.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cThe colon is a vital part of the digestive system,\u201d says <\/span>Steven J. McClane, MD, FACS, FASCRS<\/span><\/a>, Head, Division of Colorectal Surgery at\u202fCooper University Health Care<\/a>, and Co-Director, Gastrointestinal Cancer Program at MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper. \u201cHealthy habits, such as exercising regularly, avoiding tobacco products, and eating a healthy diet, are all preventative measures that will reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer \u2013 and improve your overall gut health.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

It\u2019s with these health habits in mind<\/span>,<\/span> that your colon asks<\/span> you to focus on five keys things to help maintain its overall health.\u00a0<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

1.) Please remember to fuel me with a balanced and nutritious diet.<\/span><\/b> Fiber is my best friend, so make sure to include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes in your meals. Experts recommend 25 grams <\/span>daily <\/span>for women and 38 grams for men\u2014real food is best! Fiber keeps things moving smoothly and helps prevent any constipation issues.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

2.) Water, oh glorious water!<\/span><\/b> Please keep me hydrated by drinking enough throughout the day. Without enough <\/span>water<\/span>, dehydration can set in\u2014even mild dehydration can zap your energy and leave you feeling sluggish. Eight 8-ounce glasses a day is a simple guideline, but the truth is, your hydration needs depend on your body, activity level, and environment. The best advice? Drink when you’re thirsty and pay attention to your body’s signals.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

3.)<\/strong> <\/span>Let\u2019s not forget about physical activity. <\/span><\/b>When you get moving, so do I! Regular exercise benefits our overall health. So, whether it\u2019s a brisk walk, a yoga class, or some fun dancing, keep that body active.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

4.) T<\/strong>ry to manage your stress levels.<\/span><\/b> I understand that life gets busy, and stress creeps in, but stress can wreak havoc on my delicate ecosystem, causing all sorts of disruptions. Find healthy ways to relax and unwind\u2014meditation, hobbies, or quality time with loved ones all help keep me happy.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

5.) <\/strong>M<\/strong>ost importantly, let\u2019s talk about screening.<\/span><\/b> Once you hit age 45 (or sooner if you have risk factors), it\u2019s time for a colonoscopy. I know, I know\u2014it\u2019s not anyone\u2019s idea of a fun time, but it\u2019s one of the best ways to catch potential trouble early and keep me healthy for years to come. Trust me, a little prep and a short exam are worth it!<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Please, don\u2019t ignore any signs or symptoms your colon is trying to communicate. If you notice changes in your bowel habits, experience pain, or have any concerns, don\u2019t hesitate to check in with our health<\/span> care professional. Early detection and intervention are key to maintaining my health\u2014and yours.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Call or Click to Schedule Your Colonoscopy Today<\/h3>\n

We make it easy for you to get your colonoscopy with several convenient locations close to home.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n