The colon, situated in the abdomen, is the part of the large intestine extending from the caecum to the rectum. It has four segments:
1. Ascending colon
2. Transverse colon
3. Descending colon
4. Sigmoid colon
Its functions include the completion of the digestive process involving absorption of water-soluble nutrients as well as the synthesis of certain vitamins.
The colon is a major part of the excretory system, responsible for eliminating food and other body wastes and protects us from infection and disease.
To aid this process billions of friendly bacteria inhabit the colon and make up to 70% of the dry weight of faecal waste. However this balance can be disrupted by several factors including stress, pollution, electromagnetic influences, poor food and drink choices, certain drugs, smoking and exposure to toxic substance. The result of this imbalance may be seen as increase in transit time of food through the body.
