How to Maintain a Healthy Colon

Colon cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in the United States and the second in cancer deaths, says Dr. Lynn Goldstein of New York-Presbyterian Hospital. It's important to maintain a healthy colon earlier in life to prevent colorectal cancer later. Research shows that many foods can take part in reducing the risk of disease, as well as an active lifestyle.

Things You'll Need

• Doctor
• Protein
• Fruits
• Vegetables
• Legumes
• Vitamins
• Water

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Instructions

• 1

  Cook healthy foods for a healthy colon. Eat lean sources of protein such as poultry, fish and beans. Avoid processed and red meats. Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables, many of which have cancer-reducing properties, Dr. Goldstein suggests. Increase your consumption of fiber. Eat whole grains as well as legumes.

• 2

  Make sure to get your vitamins. Calcium has been shown to reduce the risk of colon cancer. You can eat a variety of dairy products to get calcium. Also, try soy products and almonds. You may want to consider a calcium supplement. Vitamin D is another vitamin shown to help prevent colorectal cancer. You can get it from sunlight as well as food such as eggs, milk and salmon. Add folic acid (vitamin B) to your diet. Take a supplement or add foods such as lentils, asparagus, peas, strawberries and oranges.

• 3

  Drink lots of water. This is especially important if you are adding more fiber to your diet. One to two liters of water per day is what most people need.

• 4

  Stay physically active. Try 30 minutes of moderate exercise every day to get started. Consult your doctor to figure out an appropriate exercise program for you.

• 5

  Catch cancer early. Get screened for colon cancer if you are older than 50 or, if you have a family history of the disease, get screened at 40 and older. A colonoscopy should be done every 10 years, according to eMedicineHealth.com. If polyps are found, they should be removed.