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Colon polyps: 6 easy ways to keep them at bay

MIT scientists have reduced the risk of injury during endoscopy by developing a gel cushion to elevate polyps for better extraction. Though harmless, polyps can lead to cancer. Read on to know how to prevent this condition naturally.

Written by Editorial Team | Updated : July 31, 2019 1:28 PM IST

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Colon Polyps

Colon polyps are growths on the lining of the colon or large intestine. Though harmless, some can lead to cancer if left untreated for a long time. If you are diabetic, obese or a smoker, you are at risk of this condition. Inflammatory bowel disease may also increase your risk of developing colon polyps. Stomach pain, diarrhoea or constipation that lasts for more than a week, blood in stool, fatigue and shortness of breath are some of the symptoms of this condition. Colonoscopy is a common outpatient invasive procedure that can reveal precancerous growths in the colon. Known as polyps, the removal of these growths can prevent colon cancer. To reduce the risk of colon injury during this procedure, your healthcare professional may infuse a saline solution into the space beneath the lesion. This provides a cushion to lift the polyp. Your doctor can safely remove the lesion. The drawback of this is that this cushion is formed only for a few minutes. Now scientists from MIT have developed a shear-thinning gel that can be infused as a fluid. This fluid changes into a strong gel once it reaches the tissue. This is steadier and longer-lasting than a saline infusion. There are no side-effects, but human trials are yet to start. Advanced Science published this report. This is an unpleasant condition and it can be easily prevented with some corrections in habits. Here we tell you what you need to do to prevent colon polyps.

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Exercise

Lose weight: If you are obese, your risk increases. Exercise and eat healthy to lose weight. This will not only decrease your risk but also improve your overall health.

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Wind-relieving-yoga-pose

Go for yoga: Though yoga boasts of many core twisting, compression asanas that help bowel function, there is one asana that specifically targets the colon. Just lie on your back with your legs and arms extended. Draw both your knees to your chest while exhaling. Clasp your hands around them. While holding only your right knee, release your left leg and extend it along the floor. Hold this pose for up to one minute. Repeat with other leg. Try to perform this asana every day. Also Read - Common fever symptoms: Scientists claim 1 in 3 patients may have an underlying infection

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Red Meat

Avoid red meat: Limit your intake of red meats. This will drastically reduce your risk of developing colon polyps. Also keep away from processed meats and foods that are high in fat.

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Genetics 1

Get genetic counselling: Colon polyps may be a hereditary condition. Have a discussion with your doctor and see if you can get genetic counselling. Also find out if you need to be screened for polyps.