According to clinical trial data, a new blood test has proven to be quite accurate in the early detection of colorectal cancer in most cases. Colorectal cancer is often deadly, but screening for it can be inconvenient. Getting more adults to go in for screenings is a top priority to help prevent higher rates of this cancer. Health experts believe that this novel test may help people regularly screen for colorectal cancer.

What Is This Novel Blood Test?

Colorectal cancer screening has a reputation for being difficult, but this new test may be as easy as giving blood. In fact, you may even be able to do the test during your regular check up, but there are some caveats, despite the test’s efficacy. According to a recent study published in The New England Journal of Medicine, the cell-free DNA (cfDNA) was able to detect colorectal cancer in 83% of participants with the disease. That detection rate is similar to a pre-existing at-home screening test that is widely used. This test is a fecal immunochemical (FIT) test, which has a 80% detection rate. 

Health experts concur that colonoscopies remain the best way to detect and prevent colorectal cancer. The reason for this is because they can accurately identify colorectal cancer in about 95% of cases. The problem is that they require significantly more time, scheduling, and preparation. Health experts note that the combination of accuracy and accessibility could change the game for colorectal cancer screening, which is very exciting. 

Early detection with tests like these can help move the needle forward in confirming their validity. Although this novel cfDNA blood test is not perfect, it is a big step forward in the world of early colorectal cancer detection.

83% Accuracy Is Great

Just to be clear, the cfDNA test does not prevent cancer; rather, it works by detecting small DNA fragments in the blood that may come from cancerous tissue or tumors. Experts think that this is one of the first tests that uses a combination of mutations and epigenetic marks of DNA to detect cancer. 

The results of the study in The New England Journal of Medicine came from ECLIPSE, a large, multi-center trial. The trial consisted of 8,000 patients between the ages of 45 and 84. Study authors note that the participants were at an average risk for colorectal cancer and were already undergoing routine screenings. The new test, however, does not test for precancerous lesions or polyps, which can develop into cancer. Unfortunately, the test only detected precancerous lesions in 13% of cases.

Only Two-Thirds Of Americans Get Cancer Screenings

Despite how deadly colorectal cancer is (it’s the second-leading cause of all cancer-related deaths), most adults do not get the recommended screenings. In fact, less than 60% of adults between the ages of 45 and 75 receive screenings. Health experts estimate that these screenings could prevent about 35,000 deaths annually due to colorectal cancer. 

As stated earlier, colonoscopies are highly accurate at detecting precancerous lesions and colorectal cancer. That said, most people ignore them because of the hassle. Nobody wants to go through the whole process of drinking the special solution to fully eliminate the day before the test. A blood test, however, is much more appealing, despite the fact that it is slightly less accurate. Getting more people to regularly screen for colorectal cancer could be a net positive. 

The bottom line is that this new blood test is able to detect colorectal cancer in about 83% of cases. Because it is one of the most deadly forms of cancer, early detection is key. Not enough adults screen for this cancer, so the hope with this test is that more adults decide to screen for the cancer on a regular basis.

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It should be common knowledge, but you should not believe everything you see or read on the Internet, especially social media. And yet, TikTok has become a growing source of information for all sorts of health information, especially gut health. In fact, you can regularly see hashtags like #pooptok, #guthealthmatters, #guttok, and #guthealing on numerous videos. It’s pretty clear that the matters of the gut have infiltrated the social media platform. 

A lot of health experts, including gastroenterologists and other gastrointestinal (GI) experts, have joined TikTok to promote science-backed claims and advice. The reason for this is because most #guttok posts are not from experts in the field. Would you rather trust an influencer who tried one thing at one point in time, or someone who has dedicated their life to the study of the GI tract? Wellness tips are all well and good, but not all of them are correct. 

The good news about all of this is that people are encouraging others to care about their digestive health. When it comes to claims, however, not all of these videos have evidence to back them up. Sometimes, one of these videos will promote a product that aids gut health, such as a colon cleanse or colon detox solution. Don’t just trust something that you see in a video without doing thorough research on it! There are no miracle products, which is why we aim to highlight the TikTok gut health trends to question or avoid in this article. 

Gut Repair Or Leaky Gut Solutions

If you hear about a product, method, or solution that will repeat your leaky or damaged gut, it may not be what it’s cracked to be. Drinking olive oil shots or slurping on bone broth all day don’t have evidence backing efficacy for treating the problem. The problem is thinking that leaky gut syndrome can be fixed with one quick solution. Although leaky gut is not a medically recognized condition, it is a gut problem that can happen as a result of an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). You can sip bone broth in moderation, but don’t expect it to heal your gut. If you decide to drink bone broth, find ones higher in magnesium, calcium, and iron. Olive oil, while it has beneficial polyphenols and healthy fats, will not repair your gut on its own.

Laxatives For Weight Loss

If you are a #guttok trend follower, perhaps you know of the claim that taking laxatives regularly can promote weight loss. If that is a true claim, it should be a big red flag. The goal of taking a laxative is to relieve symptoms caused by constipation, not to lose weight. If you take a laxative to lose weight, you are eliminating undigested food in the form of diarrhea. That can be dangerous if it goes on for more than a short period of time. You need to absorb sufficient fluids from the GI tract, otherwise you could potentially injure your kidneys. People who suffer from constipation may need to take a laxative to eliminate stool in the colon. You should not rely on laxatives to lose weight, but instead use them to relieve constipation symptoms.

Fasting For Gut Health

Fasting is not a new trend. In fact, it has been practiced for centuries in different forms across different cultures. In most cases, there is nothing wrong with fasting, and it has actually been linked to certain health benefits. For example, one review found that intermittent fasting potentially improved metabolic effects, including better blood glucose control and fat loss. That said, fasting can also lead to negative emotions, including anxiety, irritability, and fatigue. One review found that intermittent fasting led to changes in gut bacteria that may regulate body functions and promote healthy metabolism. Fasting may improve GI symptoms for some, but there isn’t sufficient evidence to say that it directly benefits gut health. 

Colon Cleanse Or Detox Protocols

Should you avoid products or regimens that claim they can expel all the waste from your colon or purge it of toxins? You usually see these concoctions in beverage or shake form and they include cayenne, lemon juice, honey, or other similar ingredients. The idea is that a colon cleanse is the best way to benefit your digestive health. Most gastroenterologists agree that you only want to purge your colon of food or microbes before a colonoscopy. There is no reason to completely flush out your colon just because it’s Tuesday. A healthy colon contains a variety of bacteria and other organisms, the microbiome. It also contains mostly digested food that is in the process of becoming stool. A healthy colon contains a diverse microbiome that helps regulate immune function, metabolism, and even your mood! Don’t just evacuate your colon and think that your gut will flourish!

DIY Fermented Foods

There is no denying the gut-promoting powers of fermented foods like kimchi, kefir, natto, and kombucha. During fermentation, bacteria grow in a controlled environment, converting carbs or fiber in the food into an acid. That bacteria-produced acid gives fermented foods that signature sour flavor. There are many bioactive compounds in fermented foods that can be beneficial for your gut. The problem with DIY fermented foods is that you may not ferment in a way that promotes the growth of these beneficial bacteria. If you are determined to make fermented foods, instead of buying them in the store, seek reputable guidance and buy the correct products to ensure you ferment correctly. Don’t just take the word of some TikToker!

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Colon cancer develops from growth tissues in your colon’s inner lining. Colon cancer is extremely dangerous if it isn’t caught early, which is why it’s important to get a colonoscopy starting at the age of 45.

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Senna has been U.S. approved to use for temporary relief of constipation. Many have consumed this to prep for their colonoscopies as well. This ancient herb is helpful, but shouldn’t be used for long term use as it may cause dependency or harm towards your liver.

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Are you one of the millions of people who drink coffee? If you are, you probably know that coffee puts a little pep in your step and sets your bowels in motion. According to several surveys, a cup of coffee makes three in 10 people hustle to the restroom. In fact, one study found that 29% of participants needed to use the bathroom within 20 minutes of drinking a cup of coffee. Is there a reason why this happens? This article aims to provide some answers. 

Coffee And Your Colon

Coffee is a great source of caffeine, with a single cup providing about 95 milligrams (mg) of caffeine. Caffeine helps to boost energy levels, but it also increases your urge to eliminate. According to several studies, caffeine can activate contractions in the colon and intestinal muscles. These contractions push the contents in your intestines and colon towards the rectum, the final section of the digestive tract. One study found that caffeine makes the colon 60% more active than water and 23% more active than decaf coffee. That isn’t a reason to only consume coffee, though, because water is still necessary for hydration and optimal health. 

Coffee has a relationship with the rest of your body and gut. The lining of the stomach produces gastrin, a peptide hormone that enhances gastric motility and gastric mucosal growth. Why is this significant? Well, coffee sends a signal to the stomach to release more of this hormone, which induces peristalsis, the digestive muscle contractions we mentioned in the previous paragraph. Researchers also suggest that the other substances in coffee affect digestion and bowel movements in other ways. More studies are necessary to better understand this relationship. 

Why Does Coffee Cause Bowel Movements?

Muscles, hormones, and nerves all work together to complete various tasks throughout the body. In the case of the digestive system, they work to move solids and liquids through the gastrointestinal tract for proper elimination. This process is called the gastrocolic reflex, which helps the body get rid of what it doesn’t need. It occurs whether you drink or eat coffee, but several things affect this naturally occurring reflex. The gastrocolic reflex is more active in the morning, so experts believe that a cup of coffee in the morning amplifies the effect. 

Caffeine Isn’t The Culprit

Caffeine does rev up the body in several ways, which is why many people attributed it to one’s urge to poop. Some studies suggest that there’s more going on than caffeine in your system. One study found that caffeine actually relaxes the anal sphincter, which is the portion of the body that keeps stool in or lets it out. When it’s relaxed, it’s easier to poop, or you feel the need to go is a bit more urgent. However, decaf coffee also encourages muscle contractions in the large intestine. But, one study found that these muscles contracted more after drinking caffeinated coffee than decaffeinated coffee.

Chlorogenic acids and N-alkanoyl-5-hydroxytrptamides are two compounds of interest in decaf coffee. Several studies found that they stimulate the production of stomach acid, which helps to churn food and move it through the gut. The act of drinking any beverage makes the colon more active. Additionally, decaf coffee also encourages the gastrocolic reflex, which we covered previously. It’s the same reflex that activates the colon after eating a meal. Coffee isn’t a meal, but it has the same effect on your bowels, so there is definitely a relationship between it and your bowels. 

The Takeaway

There are several factors that researchers attribute to coffee’s ability to help you eliminate. Some of the compounds in coffee are interesting and affect the body in specific ways. Right now, it seems that caffeine does have a powerful influence on your bowels, especially when consumed in the morning. A cup of coffee may help you eliminate in the morning if you struggle on a regular basis.

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Since the early 1990s, colorectal cancer cases have more than doubled in adults under the age of 50. It is now the third most common cancer around the world. Researchers claim that the primary contributing factors relate to environment and lifestyle. An unhealthy diet, specifically, may be one of the leading causes of this cancer’s development. 

It’s no secret that people love to enjoy sugary beverages. From sodas and bottled juices to mixed drinks and coffee creations, there’s no shortage of sugary beverages. Sugary sodas, even ones that are zero-calorie and contain artificial sweeteners, increase the risk of colorectal cancer. In a recent meta-analysis of over 100 studies, the findings indicated that half of the younger adults with colorectal cancer were either overweight or obese. A newer study published in the journal Gut found more substantial evidence that supports this. 

The Gut Study

Researchers used the Nurses’ Health Study II, where about 96,000 women reported exactly which beverages they drank every four years. The common trend among women who drank two or more sugary beverages per day was that they doubled their risk of colorectal cancer development before age 50. The women who consumed less than one sugary drink each week had a much lower risk. 

Further in-depth analysis found that every eight-ounce sugary beverage consumed per day increased the risk of colorectal cancer development by 16%. For younger women in the 13-18-year old age bracket, the same sugary drink per day increased the risk by 32%. There were 109 participants in the study who received a diagnosis of early-onset colorectal cancer. 

The beverages that these women consumed included both carbonated and non-carbonated drinks. Soft drinks, fruit drinks, punches, and sweetened iced teas either contained high fructose corn syrup or sugar. It’s no secret that sugar increases the risk of numerous health conditions. Replacing sugary beverages with unsweetened beverages is much better for overall health and a reduced risk of colorectal cancer. The question of concern is how exactly do sweetened beverages relate to early-onset colorectal cancer? 

The Theory

Scientific researchers believe that early-onset development has to do with the fact that sugary beverages are not filling. Solid foods with similar calorie content are more filling than the beverages. The theory is, then, that sugary beverages promote overeating, which increases the risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and insulin resistance. All of these conditions increase the risk of cancer development. Studies have shown that a primary risk factor of colorectal cancer is adhering to a Western diet, which contains lots of processed foods and sugars. Additionally, it’s relatively low in nutrients and fiber that supports a diverse microbiome. 

How To Reduce Risk

If you want to reduce the risk of early-onset colorectal cancer, it’s best to swap sugary drinks for non-sugary varieties. That doesn’t mean you should drink diet versions because they contain aspartame and other artificial sweeteners that harm the system. Instead, try to focus on water, unsweetened herbal teas, homemade juices, or unsweetened coffee. Additionally, load up on fiber by consuming chia seeds, legumes, whole grains, and fruits and vegetables. When you add more fiber to your diet, it helps to move waste through the digestive tract. This helps protect the gut from forming cancer mutations. 

Young people also need to pay attention to their consumption of sugary beverages, given that 12% of colorectal cancer cases in 2020 occurred in people under the age of 50. This is why the recommended age for colon cancer screening dropped from age 50 to 45. Take action now to protect yourself in the future. Early prevention and detection is the key to reducing the severity or onset of the disease. 

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Sleep is often the most neglected component of every person’s overall health. Not only does it enable the body’s ability to repair itself, but it can also reduce the risk of heart disease, weight gain, and bowel struggles. It’s a fact that insufficient shut-eye can affect your bathroom routine. How is this even possible? Continue reading to find out. 

Many people have poor sleeping habits. People glue their eyes to their phones until seconds before they decide to lay their head to rest. They drink too much alcohol before bed, which causes poor sleep quality. It’s also common for people to sleep for less than six hours per night, when the recommended amount is between seven and eight hours nightly. Too little sleep throws the body for a spin and can affect electrolytes, hormones, and nerve signals. 

How Does Sleep Affect Digestive Health?

Health experts believe that sleep quality influences gastrointestinal symptoms, including gas, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea. This is especially true for people who live with inflammatory bowel disorders (IBDs). A 2011 study examined the link between poor bowel movements and sleep quality. The researchers of the study recruited full-time nurses who worked regular hours during the day. A small amount experienced constipation symptoms. Another group of nurses who worked rotation shifts revealed a larger number of constipation symptoms. 

The study found that going several nights without sleep, or having inconsistent sleep schedules, increased anxiety and detracted from overall well-being. Bowel disturbance was merely a byproduct of those symptoms. Still, health experts agree that going several nights without proper sleep can affect the gastrointestinal system. Additionally, the digestive problems can affect sleep quality, putting people in a catch-22 of poor sleep and digestive discomfort. 

Given that gastrointestinal issues can interfere with sleep and vice versa, more research is still necessary to understand this relationship. At this moment in time, it’s kind of a chicken-or-egg situation. Does poor sleep cause bowel inconsistency or does constipation cause poor sleep? Getting a good night’s sleep can be thought of as a preventative measure for improving gut health. As of now, experts theorize the following reasons of how sleep affects poop.

Poor Sleep Disrupts Gut Microbiota

When you don’t stick to a consistent sleep schedule, your gut microbiota suffers. The body follows a 24-hour sleep/wake cycle, which is known as the circadian rhythm. Disrupting this natural cycle negatively impacts intestinal cells and gut microbes. Creating this imbalance of gut microbiota can slow the digestive process, which means that it can throw off bowel consistency. When you maintain regular sleep and wake times, you’ll find that it’s much easier to eliminate. 

Not Enough Sleep Affects Bowel Movements

If you sleep too much or too little, you may experience constipation or other bowel troubles. Sleep experts conducted a study on the relationship between sleep time and bowel regulation. The findings indicated that people who slept less than seven to eight hours nightly were 30% more likely to experience constipation. Sleep has a restorative role in relation to overall health and bowel regulation. The brain may not be able to cue the bowels to “wake up,” i.e contract and digest, if you don’t get sufficient sleep.

Too Much Sleep May Cause Cramping

It’s interesting that insufficient sleep can lead to constipation, while too much sleep can cause potential bloating, cramping, and upset stomach. Sleep experts theorize that hormones and signals from the brain not only affect sleep patterns, but also intestinal movement. As mentioned earlier, a proper circadian rhythm keeps everything in check. Too much sleep does not give the body enough movement to activate intestinal muscles. Failure to do so means that stool cannot move efficiently through the digestive tract. Movement is necessary for pooping! Don’t sleep your days away, or else you may experience regular constipation.

Lack Of Sleep Increases Stress

When the body is sleep-deprived, it’s common to experience a hormonal imbalance. As a result, the body’s stress hormone, cortisol, begins to rise. When too much cortisol is present in the body, you are more susceptible to intestinal permeability, also known as leaky gut. This means that food and toxins can pass through the intestines and into the bloodstream. That causes a tidal wave of symptoms, including inflammation, stomach pain, food sensitivities, bloating, and constipation. 

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Generally speaking, every dad knows what to expect on Father’s Day. Socks, ties, coffee mugs, funny cards, and a homemade dinner are generally in store for dads on their special day. While gifts from the family are priceless and honor fatherhood, it’s important for fathers to take charge of their health. They play a large role in shaping their children’s future, so they should be around to see them grow up.

June is Men’s Health Month, making Father’s Day the perfect time to emphasize men’s health. Fathers devote a lot of attention to their children during their lifetime. Statistically, fathers, and men in general, tend to neglect their own health. Looking after personal health is just as important as monitoring the health of children. Several studies confirmed that fathers with poor physical and mental health have a negative impact on their children’s overall well being. 

For Father’s Day, we have five health tips for dads that will help them live happier, healthier lives. Stick around for more Father’s Days when you maintain overall health!

Schedule An Annual Physical

Statistically, men are 24% less likely than women to visit a doctor for yearly physicals. One of the best ways to stay on top of your health is by taking preventative measures. Several surveys concluded that men are 32% more likely than women to end up in a hospital for long-term diabetic complications. And men are 28% more likely than women to be hospitalized for congestive heart failure. Don’t let dad put off doctor visits!

Seek Help For Depression

This tip applies to men who grapple with depression or severe anxiety. It’s important to recognize the signs and symptoms of depression in order to seek help when necessary. For both men and women, depression is one of the leading causes of disease and injury worldwide. Signs and symptoms of depression include feelings of hopelessness, reduced energy levels, thoughts of suicide, and persistent sadness. Anyone who experiences these symptoms should seek help immediately. Many hotlines, support groups, and alternative treatments can benefit mental health. 

Find Ways To Manage Stress

Many health practitioners explain that stress is one of the primary risks of developing depression, heart disease, and chronic inflammation. Excess stress hormones in the body can negatively impact overall health. Fathers and mothers can hold a lot of stress, and certain things their children do only add to it. While there are many ways to naturally reduce stress, each person will have to find their own outlet that invites zen into their life. If you need help getting rid of stress, click here to read about ways to address your stress. 

Consider A Colonoscopy

This is not a fun topic to discuss with dads, but it is a necessary one if they are nearing 50 years old. In the United States, colon cancer happens to be the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths. The Standard American Diet increases waste accumulation in the colon and digestive tract, and this can lead to numerous intestinal disorders, as well as colon cancer. A colonoscopy is an excellent way to screen for colon cancer. Men who are 50 years old or older should consider a colonoscopy, especially if there is family history of colon cancer or inflammatory bowel disease. 

Focus On Cardiovascular Health

If you want dad to keep up with chasing you at the park, make sure he is in great cardiovascular shape. Improving and maintaining heart health requires constant work. From eating the right foods to regularly exercising, keeping the heart healthy is a full-time job. Health experts suggest to engage in 150 minutes of moderately intense cardiovascular exercise per week. Additionally, it’s ideal to eat a healthy diet that consists of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and legumes. Try to limit the consumption of alcohol, meat, processed foods, saturated fats, refined starches, and dairy products. All of those foods negatively impact heart health. 

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Chef RedBeard walks us through how to make the Colon Sweep Smoothie.

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Dherbs CEO (AD Dolphin) talks about colon health.

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