We rarely think about the large intestine unless it causes discomfort. However, that doesn?t mean we should ignore it. We have many tools to support colon health and prevent colorectal cancer, and research shows we should take advantage of every one.
Risk Factors
There are a variety of well-known risk factors for colon cancer: family history, lifestyle and pre-existing conditions, such as Crohn?s disease.
Diet and exercise are the best ways to control your risk for colon cancer, as they are with many conditions. Your meals should be focused on lean protein, whole grains, fruits and vegetables. Stay away from high glycemic index foods such as sugars and simple carbohydrates. A study of patients who had undergone colon cancer surgery found that those who controlled their glycemic index had longer disease-free survival rates. They send glucose into the bloodstream quickly and cause blood sugar to spike.
You should also increase your fiber intake. Dietary fiber can slow down changes in blood sugar.
As for exercise, it doesn?t take much to be effective. Just a 30-minute brisk walk each day can do wonders for your colon, as well as for your cardiovascular and overall health.
What Lives In The Microbiome
The digestive tract is home to billions of symbiotic bacteria that generally help with digestion and other functions. So now this area of the body is known as a ?microbiome? ? a habitat for tiny flora.
For many years, this was an understudied aspect of human health, but not anymore. Beneficial bacteria have been found to be involved in numerous areas of health beyond digestion. Researchers continue to find links between the overgrowth of harmful bacteria and long-term, chronic health problems.
For example, one 2012 study sheds light on how E. coli bacteria may play a role in cancer. Researchers at the University of Liverpool, in collaboration with the University of North Carolina, looked at an E. coli strain that carries PKS genes, genetic material that produces a DNA-destroying toxin. The scientists found much higher levels of this variety of E. coli in people with inflammatory bowel disease and in those with colon cancer. Further research found that laboratory animals harboring PKS-positive E. coli have a higher incidence of colon cancer.
Scientists believe that it is the DNA damage caused by these bacteria that produces cellular changes that cause cancer.
The idea that a form of bacteria might influence cancer development should come as no surprise. Healthy bacteria have been found to protect against cancer, heart disease and even mood disorders. Conversely, unhealthy varieties can promote disease, acutely or chronically.
This is why it is so important to support a healthy balance of beneficial bacteria in our bodies. While the microscopic inhabitants of our microbiome watch out for our health, this cancer can?t be one-sided. You, as their host, must also look after them. A proper diet, along with targeted supplementation, is the best support.
The same researchers who discovered the potential relationship between PKS-positive E. coli and colon cancer had previously studied how different foods affect E. coli movement in the gut. For example, plantains and broccoli reduce the amount of bad bacteria being taken in by cells, while the fat emulsifiers found in processed foods increase the amount of E. coli being taken in.
Probiotics And Cleansing
One of the best ways to support the microbiome is through probiotic-rich supplements as well as cultured foods like yogurt and sauerkraut. By reintroducing healthy bacteria into the digestive tract, we boost immunity, improve nutrient absorption and generate a number of other significant health benefits.
We should also be taking active steps to regularly remove toxins. Springtime is an opportune season to engage in gentle, restorative cleanses to remove toxins from the digestive tract and body. One of my top recommendations for this is modified citrus pectin (MCP). It helps remove heavy metals and environmental toxins from the circulation and digestive system. MCP is also a powerful supplement for maintaining healthy inflammation responses as well as supporting immunity and cellular health.
In addition, an ancient Tibetan herbal formula has been shown in research to inhibit certain strains of pathogenic bacteria, including two forms of E. coli. This formula has also been extensively researched for its ability to support circulation and a healthy inflammation process.
While these are good tips for maintaining colon health, nothing is foolproof. That?s why I recommend getting screened for colon cancer. For those 50 or older, a colonoscopy can detect early colon cancer. Consult with your physician; if you have a family history of colorectal cancer, you may want to be screened at an even younger age. Prevention efforts and effective early detection methods directed at cancer can potentially save lives.
For more health and wellness information, visit www.dreliaz.org.
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Source: http://easyhealthoptions.com/cancer/can-bacteria-be-causing-colon-cancer/
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