How to Avoid Colon Polyps

Intestines

Polyps are small, abnormal growths on the wall of the colon. Most are benign and can be removed, but some can become cancerous. Although you are more likely to develop polyps if there is a genetic predisposition to them in your family, there are some commonsense steps you can take to help prevent them from forming.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Diet

1. Eat a balanced variety of nutritious foods. Vitamin-rich and mineral-rich foods promote colon health. Calcium also appears to be related to lower incidence of polyps. Avoid too much meat or fatty food.

2. Be sure many of the foods you eat contain large amounts of fiber. Fruits, vegetables and whole grains are fiber-rich foods. Fiber tends to cleanse the colon and promote sustained health.

3. Drink plenty of water, about eight glasses per day, to counteract constipation tendencies that sometimes result from consuming increased amounts of fiber. The water will help regulate normal bowel flow.

4. Avoid smoking.

5. Get adequate exercise.

6. Become familiar with your family's medical history. They may possess certain genetic tendencies which predispose you toward intestinal problems, such as developing colon polyps. Consult your doctor about how to counteract these tendencies.

7. Periodically consult a gastroenterologist for a gastrointestinal checkup, as directed by your family physician, especially if you are over 50.

References

• Dietary fibre and colorectal cancer - where do we stand
• Colon Polyps - Treatment Overview
• Health Encyclopedia

Resources

• Calcium may prevent polyps but cancer not clear