Colon Polyps

Home Treatment

No home treatment is done for colon polyps. See the Treatment Overview section of this topic for more information.

However, you can take action that may prevent colon polyps from developing:⁷

• Eat a low-fat, high-fiber diet.
• Maintain a healthy body weight.
• Quit smoking.
• Use alcohol in moderation. Moderate alcohol use usually is defined as one alcoholic beverage per day for women and two for men.
• Take calcium supplements. Taking 3 g of calcium carbonate each day may keep polyps from coming back after they are removed.

Experts are not yet certain that these approaches prevent colon polyps or colorectal cancer.

These self-care methods should not be a substitute for regular colorectal screening, especially if you are older than 50 or are at increased risk of developing colon polyps or colon cancer. While these approaches may decrease your risk of developing colon polyps, they will not prevent you from ever developing colon polyps.

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Author:	Monica Rhodes	Last Updated: May 14, 2007
Medical Review:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Peter J. Kahrilas, MD - Gastroenterology
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