Understanding Colon

Our large intestine is also called the colon. The last part of the small intestine is called the ileum which is then connected to the first part of the large intestine which is called the cecum in the lower right part of our abdomen. The rest of the colon is then divided into four parts which are:

Ascending Colon – travels up the right of the abdomen

Descending Colon – travels down the left abdomen

Transverse Colon – runs across the abdomen

Sigmoid Colon – a short curving of the colon, just before the rectum

Colon functions in removing the water, salt and some nutrients which is formed as stool. Muscles line the colon walls, squeezing its contents along. Billions of bacteria coat the colon and its contents, living in a healthy balance with the body.