How does the colon work?
The colon, or large intestine, is a tubular organ approximately 5 to 6 feet in length and 2 to 3 inches in diameter. The contents of digestion (chyme) are moved along by mass muscular movements (peristalsis), which are initiated by the nerve supply to the colon. The colon absorbs some minerals, nutrients and excess water from the digested residue of the food we have eaten. Toxins and waste materials are then discharged through the anus. The process of digestion from ingestion of food to defecation normally takes between twelve and twenty-four hours. When the colon is healthy, we experience a feeling of well-being because we are assimilating and eliminating properly. To ensure a healthy colon, we have observed that sufficient water, good nerve tone, adequate circulation and the proper biochemical nutrients and intestinal flora are needed.
