The Colon

The normal functioning of colon

The food we eat, which are partially digested in the stomach, will move into the small intestines where nutrients are absorbed. The residues of undigested food then move from the small intestines into the large intestine or colon.

The main function of the colon is to absorb water and salt from these matters. There is very little nutritional absorption within the colon. The longer these matters are left inside the colon, the more water it absorbs.

This results in the matter which we call stools or feces to become hardened as it becomes dry and compacted. When we have a bowel movement, contractions within the colon pushes the stools en mass into the rectum for expulsion through the anus.

Autointoxication

Autointoxication is the condition whereby the body literally poisons itself by its inability to eradicate bacteria and decaying matter within the colon. If these decaying matter are allowed to remain in the colon, the higher the levels of harmful bacteria that reside within our system. These bacteria will gradually release toxins and they get reabsorbed into our body.

One of the main causes of autointoxication is putrefaction of undigested food within the intestinal tract. This decaying process causes a toxic buildup of gases causing foul odor and other substances.

If bowel movements are regular, you will hardly notice foul odor from gases emitted from our body. On the other hand, the presence of putrefaction odor indicates that wastes are being stored in the body for too long leading to autointoxication.

What are the causes of an unhealthy colon?

Regular consumption of food containing saturated fats, excess protein intake, processed foods, drugs and other medications all combine to create an unhealthy colon. Dietary fiber helps to increase the weight and size of your stool.

Bulky stool are easier to pass out of the intestinal tract thereby decreasing the chance of constipation. Fiber may also help to solidify the stool should you have loose, watery stools because it absorbs water and adds bulk to stool.

Unhealthy colon symptoms

1. Constipation

Constipation is the name given to a condition where there is difficulty in the passing of stool. Usually, these stools are very dry, hard and compacted.

2. Irritable bowel syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome is a functional disorder of the colon. Signs and symptoms include chronic diarrhea, abdominal pain and discomfort.

Other medical problems related to an unhealthy colon

Benign and malignant growths usually present symptoms such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, constipation, bloody stools and rectal bleeding.

Intestinal parasites can physically obstruct the intestines as they can be pretty large and in huge numbers. Heavy worm infestations can block the intestinal tract, making the passing of stools difficult.

So, it is in our best interest that we should take steps to ensure our colon is functioning at its optimum.