COLON HEALTH TIPS #MEMFITMAG

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, highlighting the importance of screening for colorectal cancer and promoting healthy lifestyle habits to decrease your risk of developing colorectal cancer. Check out these tips to keep your colon healthy!

• CONSUME A HIGH-FIBER DIET

Consuming 25-35 grams of fiber daily is an important part of maintaining a healthy colon, as fiber increases feelings of fullness and promotes regular bowel movements. Nuts, seeds, lentils, berries, and beans are great sources of fiber.

• STAY HYDRATED

When you’re not properly hydrated, toxins can build up in your body. Drinking eight or more glasses of water daily can help move toxins and excrement through your colon more quickly. Consider investing in a fun water bottle or setting water goals to make sure you stay hydrated.

• EXERCISE REGULARLY

At least 30 minutes of moderate exercise five days a week can lower your risk of many types of cancer and your risk of colon cancer by up to 24%.

• FOLLOW SCREENING GUIDELINES

Beginning at age 45, regular screening is the key to preventing colorectal cancer and finding it early. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (Task Force) recommends that adults aged 45 to 75 be screened for colorectal cancer.

The local fitness community mourns the sudden passing of Hailey Thomas. She was known for her good humor and participation in many sporting events. A lifelong Memphian, she was an avid runner who frequently placed in her age group and had traveled to marathons as far away as Dublin, Ireland. Thomas served as executive editor of this magazine for almost 20 years.

“I remember Hailey winning a bet with some good ole’ boys at the Memphis BBQ Fest who had wagered that a woman couldn’t do eight chin-ups. Hailey jumped on a bar and popped them out to a cheering crowd. She was always up to any fitness challenge.”