It is important to keep our digestive system in the best condition to prevent bowel cancer
As March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month in Brunei Darussalam, there’s no better time to talk about keeping our digestive system in tip-top shape.
While we often focus on skincare routines or hitting our daily step goals, how often do we think about what’s happening in our gut?
Let’s change that, with a little expert advice from the Ministry of Health and a whole lot of motivation!
WHY GUT HEALTH MATTERS MORE THAN YOU THINK
When it comes to health, some topics rarely make it into casual conversation – and digestive health is one of them. But here’s the thing: bowel-related issues aren’t just uncomfortable; they could be a sign of something far more serious.
Bowel cancer is among the most commonly diagnosed cancers worldwide, yet it often develops silently. Many people experience no symptoms in the early stages, and by the time noticeable signs – such as abdominal discomfort, unexplained weight loss, or changes in bowel habits – appear, the disease may already be advanced.
The good news? It’s highly preventable! And no, that doesn’t mean surviving on a diet of plain salads or spending hours at the gym (unless that’s your thing, of course). Small, sustainable changes can go a long way in supporting your gut health and reducing your risk.
EASY WAYS TO SHOW YOUR GUT SOME LOVE
Your digestive system thrives on variety! A fibre-rich diet packed with whole grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables helps keep things moving smoothly.
Think of foods like oats, beans, and leafy greens as nature’s way of sweeping away toxins and keeping your gut balanced.
Love a good barbecue? While there’s nothing wrong with indulging now and then, too much red and processed meat has been linked to an increased risk of bowel cancer.
Swapping some meals for lean proteins like fish or plant-based alternatives can be a simple yet effective way to support better health.
And it’s not just about what you eat – how you move matters too. A sedentary lifestyle slows digestion, while regular physical activity helps regulate your bowels and maintain a healthy weight.
The best part? You don’t need a gym membership – just 30 minutes of brisk walking a day can do wonders.
Lifestyle habits like smoking and excessive alcohol consumption also play a role in bowel cancer risk.
Seeking support to quit smoking can have a lasting impact on overall health, not just for your gut but for your entire body.
WHY SCREENING MAKES A DIFFERENCE
For those in the recommended age group, regular screening is one of the most effective ways to detect early signs of bowel cancer.
A simple, non-invasive stool test can help identify potential issues long before symptoms appear – giving you the chance to take action early when treatment is most effective.
Sure, booking a health check might not be high on the list of fun activities, but when it comes to cancer, early detection saves lives.
BREAKING THE STIGMA AROUND DIGESTIVE HEALTH
Let’s be honest – few people are comfortable talking about their bowels. But avoiding the subject doesn’t make the risk disappear.
Normalising conversations about gut health can help more people recognise warning signs, seek medical advice sooner, and take preventative steps.
At the end of the day, looking after your digestive health isn’t about making drastic sacrifices – it’s about making informed choices that support long-term well-being. Because when your gut is happy, the rest of you feels the difference too.
So, if you’ve been putting off that screening, consider this your friendly nudge. Your gut deserves love, attention, and regular check-ups. What are you waiting for? Lakastah Becek! – IZAH AZAHARI
