Simple and Effective Tips for Colorectal Health: Guidance from St. Mary’s Health Care System

Learn More about Colorectal Cancer Risks

Are You at Risk? Schedule Your Screening Today

Healthy Habits for Colorectal Wellness

Adopting a few simple lifestyle changes can make a big difference in reducing your risk of colorectal cancer and other digestive issues.

• Eat a Fiber-Rich Diet: Fiber helps keep your digestive system moving smoothly, reducing constipation and lowering the risk of colorectal cancer. Aim for fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and legumes.
• Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water aids digestion and helps your body eliminate waste effectively.
• Exercise Regularly: Physical activity reduces inflammation and helps regulate digestion. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week.
• Limit Red and Processed Meats: High consumption of red or processed meats has been linked to a higher risk of colorectal cancer. Try replacing it with lean proteins like chicken, fish, or plant-based options.
• Avoid Smoking and Limit Alcohol: Smoking and heavy alcohol use increases colorectal cancer risk. If you don’t smoke or drink, don’t start. If you do, quitting smoking and only drinking in moderation can greatly improve your overall health.
• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Obesity is a known risk factor for colorectal cancer. A balanced diet and regular exercise can help manage weight and lower risk. If you do these things but still have trouble maintaining a healthy weight, talk to your primary care provider (PCP) about other measures you can take to promote better health.

The Power of Preventive Care

Regular screenings and check-ups with your doctor are key to catching potential issues early.

• Partner with a primary care provider: A PCP is your trusted health partner for life. They get to know you, especially over time. Your PCP can provide diagnostics, guidance, medications, and referrals to specialists, when needed.
• Know Your Family History: Share your family’s medical history with your doctor to assess your risk.
• Get Screened: Colorectal cancer screenings can detect precancerous polyps before they turn into cancer. Current guidelines recommend you start getting screened at age 45 – earlier if you have risk factors such as a family history of colorectal cancer.
• Listen to Your Body: If you experience symptoms like persistent changes in bowel habits, unexplained weight loss, or blood in your stool, don’t ignore them — see your doctor.

Care Close to Home

At St. Mary’s Health, we’re proud to provide compassionate care through our network of primary care providers and colorectal specialists.

Schedule an appointment at any of our Primary Care locations and take charge of your health:

• Athens Internal Medicine Associates – Athens, GA
• Community Internal Medicine of Athens – Athens, GA
• Georgia Family Medicine – Watkinsville, GA
• Good Samaritan Primary Care – Greensboro, GA
• Sacred Heart Primary Care – Lavonia, GA
• St. Mary’s Family Medicine – Bogart, GA
• St. Mary’s Internal Medicine Associates – Athens, GA
• St. Mary’s Primary Care – Athens, GA

Specialty Care for Advanced Treatment:

• Athens General & Colorectal Surgeons – Athens, GA
• Athens General & Colorectal Surgeons – Greensboro, GA
• Sacred Heart General Surgery – Lavonia, GA

Take Control of Your Colorectal Health Today

Small, consistent changes in your habits can lead to lasting health benefits. Whether you’re looking to improve your diet, start a screening schedule, or simply learn more about colorectal health, St. Mary’s is here for you. Our dedicated primary care providers and colorectal specialists are ready to support you at every stage of your wellness journey.

Reach out to one of our locations to schedule an appointment or discuss your colorectal health. Together, we can help you take proactive steps toward a healthier future!