The colon is highly integral to the digestive system. And the cancer of this organ is the third most common type in the country. Some of the most signs and symptoms of colon cancer include diarrhea, constipation, bloody stools, and persistent abdominal discomfort. If one’s colon cancer is localized to the bowels, it can be treated with ease. Here, we’ve listed some treatment options along with foods and home remedies that help manage symptoms.

Before looking at the treatment options, we shall discuss at-home colon cancer tests. There are mainly three types of at-home tests: Fecal occult blood tests (FOBTs), fecal immunochemical tests (FITs), and FIT-DNA. All three tests involve the self-collection of stool samples, but they work differently. Carefully reading instructions on the at-home test kits is important before taking a test.

Treatments
Here are three FDA-approved treatment options for colon cancer:

• OPDIVO® (nivolumab)
  OPDIVO is used in combination with another treatment option to primarily treat metastatic (spread to other parts of the body) colon cancer in people 12 years or older.
• Avastin® (bevacizumab)
  This treatment option is administered to those suffering from metastatic colon cancer. Avastin is made to work together with chemotherapy to prevent tumor growth.
• Keytruda® (pembrolizumab)
  Keytruda® is designed to be the first treatment option for people with advanced colon cancer.

Nutrition
Adding these foods to one’s nutritional regimen can help them address colon cancer:

• Black beans
  Eating black beans increases levels of certain fatty acids in the body, which can ward off cancer-cell growth. Note that beans and legumes are considered superfoods when it comes to combating colon cancer.
• Turmeric
  This yellow spice contains a potent anti-inflammatory called curcumin. This compound has been found to help stop the growth of cancer cells.
• Black raspberries
  The high levels of antioxidants and phytonutrients, especially anthocyanins, in black raspberries can slow the development of cancer cells.

Natural remedies
Although natural remedies can’t cure colon cancer, these options can improve one’s quality of life and reduce the side effects of other cancer treatments. The most natural way to manage colon cancer is exercise, such as jogging, cycling, and swimming. Half an hour of daily workouts can be beneficial for those with the disease. Regular physical activity can reduce the risk of developing cancer in the first place.