Colon
The colon, also known as the large intestine, reclaims water from waste materials, absorbs nutrients that the stomach and small intestine were unable to process, and expels solid waste from the body. The colon relies on beneficial bacteria to help break down undigested food particles and produce some nutrients.
A healthy colon produces two or more bowel movements per day. Stool should be well-formed, smooth, light in color, and should contain no pieces of undigested food. Bowel movements should come quickly, without straining or pushing. Even a mildly constipated colon allows toxins to accumulate in the body.
Beneficial Foods
| Asparagus | Contains a type of carbohydrate called inulin, which feeds the healthy bacteria in our large intestine, thereby making it more difficult for harmful bacteria to thrive. |
| Bananas | Abundant in the compound, fructooligosaccharide, which feeds healthy intestinal bacteria. |
| Blueberries | Relieve diarrhea and constipation. |
| Broccoli | Substantially lowers risk of colorectal cancer when eaten at least 3-5 times per week. Eat only organic, raw or lightly steamed broccoli for cancer-fighting effects. |
| Brussels Sprouts | Reduce the risk of colon cancer. The fiber helps elimination and prevents diverticulosis. |
| Burdock Root | A source of probiotics and beneficial intestinal bacteria. |
| Cauliflower | Reduces the risk of colon cancer. |
| Figs | A very effective natural laxative. Dissolve mucus in the intestines. |
| Ginger | The gingerols in ginger inhibit the growth of colorectal cancer cells. |
| Jerusalem Artichokes | Encourage growth of good intestinal bacteria. May cause gas for some when eaten raw. |
| Nettles | Dissolve mucus in the colon, allowing it to expel waste. |
| Onions | Prevent growth of harmful bacteria and putrification in the intestines. |
| Quinoa | Encourages growth of good intestinal bacteria. |
| Radishes | Powerful mucus dissolver, especially black radishes. |
| Turmeric | Relieves symptoms of inflammatory bowel disease, including Crohn's and ulcerative colitis. |
Beneficial Nutrients
| Calcium | Prevents colon cancer, possibly by binding with cancer promoters in the colon and excreting them from the body. |
| Chlorophyll | Cleanses intestinal tissue. Promotes good intestinal bacteria. |
| Fats | Raw fats, including cold-pressed oils, help lubricate the intestines. |
| Fiber | Promotes healthy intestinal bacteria. Adds bulk to waste matter to help elimination. Helps remove intestinal parasites. |
| Vitamin B1/Thiamin | A deficiency can cause constipation. |
| Vitamin B5/Pantothetic Acid | High supplemental doses have been used to treat constipation. |
| Vitamin B9/Folate | Prevents colorectal cancer. |