Hello everyone and welcome to HEALTH AND #WELLNESS WEDNESDAY! I know we’ve discussed several topics regarding colon cancer recently, but because March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month, let’s visit it one more time — and re-cap with five great tips that will provide you with a “bottom-line” of information to help you stay healthy!
1) This cancer is often referred to as Colorectal cancer. This is because the large intestine, which is about five feet long, connects to the rectum, which is about five inches long — and it’s really not clear where one ends and the other begins. As a result, colorectal is often used to describe cancers occurring in this tissue. It’s sometimes just a little more precise than the term “colon” cancer.
2) This cancer typically is found in older individuals, unless one has a family history of this disease. If this is the case, colon cancer can develop much earlier — even in one’s 20s or 30s. Accordingly, screening procedures should be conducted earlier as well. Remember, heredity is a significant risk factor for this cancer.
3) The most common and effective screening procedure for colon cancer is the colonoscopy — something we have discussed several times. Typically, this procedure is recommended for individuals who have turned fifty — to be repeated every five years or so. UNLESS, this cancer runs in your family. Then, always check with your doctor to determine when screening should begin and how often it should be repeated. AND remember, we also discussed the DIY Colon Cancer Test Kit recently. This is just another item in our Cancer Tool Box that will allow us to test ourselves at home in-between our regularly scheduled colonoscopies. Never a bad idea. Especially for those of us with a greater risk for developing colon cancer.
4) Diet also is a notable risk factor for colon cancer. It’s all a matter of trying to keep our digestive 
tract in good working order. This means, we need to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, which in turn will help flush our system of toxins and waste. By the way, why not eat an extra fruit or vegetable each day? Both provide fiber to promote regularity and many contain an abundance of antioxidants, which help fight cancer cells and free radicals in our bodies. Finally, we should limit our intake of red meats and other fatty foods that can simply clog up our systems — just like a kitchen drain.
5) And, don’t forget to exercise! Think of it this way. When we move, all our internal organs are gently massaged. When the intestinal tract is massaged — by walking, stretching, bicycling or any other movement — it is encouraged to work properly. Material is gently “pushed along” the tract, which allows us to eliminate harmful bacteria and waste that otherwise may contribute to a “breeding ground” for illness, disease and cancer cells.
Yes, it’s true!! A clean colon is a happy and healthy colon!! So, let’s be aware this month and put these tips into practice today and throughout the year!
To your Health and Wellness everyone!! Until next time,
TAKE THE COURSE AND TAKE CHARGE!
Image courtesy of KEKO64 at freedigitalphotos.net
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