Colon disorders are common gastrointestinal problems characterized by abnormal bowel habits and abdominal pain.
Poor dietary choices, including the worst foods for colon health, can exacerbate these issues, making prevention just as important as treatment. The Rome IV diagnostic criteria, developed by the Rome Foundation, are used to diagnose functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) and Disorders of Gut-Brain Interaction (DGBIs). Various drugs and nonpharmaceutical treatments including herbal remedies can be used, but individualized care is crucial.
Main Causes of Colon Disorders
The causes of colon disorders are numerous and unclear. However, motility, visceral feeling, brain-gut interaction, and psychosocial discomfort can all contribute to the development of IBS, as will be discussed in the pathophysiology section below.
How Common Are Colon Disorders?
It is common in primary care practices, and 12% of patients seeking medical attention have colon disorders.
Although the prevalence is between 10 and 15%), the majority of patients choose not to seek treatment.
Southeast Asia has the lowest prevalence (7%), while South America has the highest (21%).
In the US and Canada, women are 1.5: 2 times more likely to experience symptoms, and the prevalence declines with age.
How Poor Diet Affects Colon Function
Abnormalities in motility, visceral feeling, brain-gut connection, and psychosocial distress are all part of the complex pathophysiology of irritable colon. Though not all symptoms can be linked to them, most patients can typically exhibit at least one of these.
Early life stressors, dietary intolerance, antibiotics, and intestinal infections are examples of environmental factors that contribute to this condition.
Patients frequently complain that their food intake is linked to their symptoms. However, a real food allergy only contributes a small amount to colon irritation.
Diagnosis of Colon Disorders (IBS and Related Conditions)
According to Rome IV criteria, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional bowel illness characterized by frequent abdominal pain that is linked to changes in bowel habits or defecation.
Symptoms of abdominal bloating, distension, and excessive gas are common, as are disorders of bowel movements (constipation, diarrhea, or a combination of constipation and diarrhea).
At least six months should pass before a diagnosis is made, and the symptoms should have appeared during the previous three months.
What Are FODMAPs and How Do They Affect Colon Health?
Fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides, and polyols, or FODMAPs, are short-chain carbohydrates (sugars) that are poorly absorbed by the small intestine. After consuming them, some people have digestive issues similar to those who develop sudden food intolerances. Among the symptoms are:-
Cramping
Constipation
Bloating
Flatulence and gases
Worst Foods for Colon Health: What to Avoid
Individual differences exist in the foods that cause symptoms. Avoiding foods high in FODMAPs that upset the gut is crucial for reducing the symptoms of irritable colon, including:
Dairy-based products like ice cream, yoghurt, and milk.
Wheat products, like bread, crackers, and cereal.
Legumes and beans.
Some veggies, including garlic, onions, asparagus, and artichokes.
Some fruits, including peaches, pears, cherries, and apples.
Building Your Low-FODMAP Meal Plan
Meats and eggs.
There are several cheeses like feta, Camembert, cheddar, and berries.
Milk with almonds.
Grains such as quinoa, oats, and rice; veggies such as zucchini, eggplant, potatoes, tomatoes, and cucumbers.
Fruits include pineapple, oranges, strawberries, blueberries, and grapes.
How to Manage and Treat Colon Disorders Naturally and Medically
For constipation, take probiotics, loperamide, laxatives, or fiber supplements.
Increase physical activity.
Avoid FODMAPs.
For persistent abdominal pain, consider relatively small doses of serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs).
Alosetron can cause ischaemic colitis but can help female IBS-D.
For people with IBS, the nonabsorbable broad-spectrum antibiotic Rifaximin can reduce diarrhea and stomach pain.
Patients experiencing abdominal pain, bloating, cramping, or bowel changes should consult a primary care physician, and if diagnosed with IBS, a gastroenterology consultation is necessary for management and treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions about Colon Health
What are the Top 5 Worst Foods for Colon Health?
It’s also crucial to monitor for any persistent changes and be aware of potential signs of colon cancer.
