To get to the guts of the matter, so to speak, the colon and the bowel are pretty much the same part of the human anatomy. The only real difference between the two terms is that "bowel" tends to be a more old-fashioned term (as used in phrases like "bowels of compassion") and "colon" is the more scientific term.

Both "colon" and "bowel" are what is also called the large intestine. The colon or bowel is

The colon or bowel is lined with "smooth muscle" that contracts to push the waste through itself, similar to the way that toothpaste is squeezed out of the tube by pressure from your hand. The colon or bowel derives some of the energy to do this from the nutrients in the blood, but also from some helpful bacteria that live in the colon or bowel in a symbiotic relationship (you scratch my back; I'll scratch yours).

These helpful little bacteria which are vital for good colon or bowel health are the acidophilus and bifidus bacteria. These bacteria help break down some of the indigestible fibre in the diet, but still leave plenty of fibre to keep the colon or bowel healthy.

Fibre is a very important part of the diet when it comes to keeping the colon or bowel clean and healthy. This is because the indigestible fibre helps sweep the other waste products on through the colon or bowel. It's widely known that having reduced fibre in the diet (e.g. while on a low-carb diet), commonly causes constipation. This is because the colon or bowel doesn't have the fibre it needs to push the waste through.

Various health problems can occur in the colon or bowel. Obviously, irritable bowel syndrome is one of them, but colitis, Crohn's Disease and colon/bowel cancer are also problems that can occur.

Having a good diet with plenty of fibre and water is a big step forward in ensuring that your colon or bowel is kept healthy. Some argue that the fibre "sweeps" the inside of the colon or bowel, preventing excessive (unwanted) bacteria, waste material or other harmful substances from lingering in the colon or bowel and causing problems.

Fibre for good colon or bowel health is found in wholegrain breads and cereals, and in fruit and vegetables. We all know what prunes and figs are capable of doing to you if eaten in excess! Beans, pulses and other seeds such as linseed are also good sources of fibre. And eating acidophilus yoghurt is another way of maintaining good colon or bowel health.

Some people suffer symptoms similar to irritable bowel syndrome as a response to a dairy intolerance or even a dairy allergy. If you suspect that this may be the case, then try leaving dairy out of the diet (or switch to goats' milk) and see if you have a happier colon or bowel as a result.

Gluten intolerance can also cause problems in the colon or bowel. Once again, you can see if this is the source of your problem by eliminating gluten products (mostly in wheat) from your diet and seeing if the condition improves.

Of course, if you have any concerns about your colon or bowel and your bowel movements, then you should consult a professional.

About the Author

frank j vanderlugt owns and operates http://www.Colon-carcinoma.com Colon Carcinoma