How Colorectal Cancer Affects Digestive Health

Written by Dr. Bharat Pothuri, MD, FACG | Updated On 08-17-2025

The impact of colorectal cancer on the digestive health

An Amiable Parsonage of Gastrodoxs

Colorectal cancer happens to be one of the most widespread cancers in the U.S, but most do not understand how it profoundly it can influence the digestive system. At Gastrodoxs, we have the idea that knowledge is power. During this guide, you will know how colorectal cancer can impact body digestion and bowel movements, the effects of symptoms on the gut and some of the ways to deal with bowel complications and how to treat or manage gutalaque. Even we will be sharing the quotes of experts, such as Dr. Bharat Pothuri, who is a board-certified colorectal surgeon in Houston, and tips that are applicable to patients in Texas.

Table of Contents

1. What Is Colorectal Cancer?
2. Effects of Colorectal Cancer on Bowels and digestion.
3. The symptoms of Colorectal Cancer Interfering with Digestion.
4. Colorectal Cancer Symptoms and their Impact on Gut Health.
5. Treatment of Digestive Problems resulting due to colorectal cancer.
6. Colorectal Cancer and Digestive Side Effects Treatment.
7. Nutritional Support of Colorectal Cancer Literature.
8. City of Houston, TX Local Resources.

1. What Is Colorectal Cancer?

Colorectal cancer originates in the colon or rectangle. Large intestine consists of the colon and the rectum. Their work is to absorb water, nutrient and waste until you use the bathroom. Abnormal cells that appear on the inner lining may develop polyps or tumors.

• Incidence: Colorectal cancer occurs in approximately 23 rates of men and 25 rates of women in the U.S.
• The risk factors: age (age 50 years old and more), family history, low-fiber diet, obesity, smoking, alcohol.

According to Dr. Bharat Pothuri, “when cancer is early diagnosed on the colon, lives can be saved. Screening procedures such as colonoscopy detect a small polyps before it develops to become a tumor.”

2. Effects of Colorectal Cancer on Bowels and digestion

The stool can also be blocked by the growth of a tumor in the colon or rectum. This leads to:

• Constipation or diarrhea
• Cramping and bloating
• Narrow or ribbon-like stools
• Urgency or the feeling that you cannot able to complete a bowel movement.

Quote: “According to Dr. Bharat Pothuri, nicely said about tumors, they can change bowel habits and cause discomfort.”

3. The symptoms of Colorectal Cancer Interfering with Digestion

The identification of warning signs will accelerate diagnosis. Watch for:

• Two weeks + of change in bowel habits.
• Hematologic disorders: Blood in stool or rectal bleeding.
• Constant pain or feeling within the abdomen, cramps, or stomach gas.
• Satiated despite diminutive meals.
• Unintentional weight loss

If you see any of these signs of colorectal cancer affecting digestion, discuss them with your doctor immediately.

4. Colorectal Cancer Symptoms and their Impact on Gut Health

In addition to bowel alterations, colorectal cancer may damage gut health at an even more profound level:

• Disturbed intestinal flora – bad bacteria thrive, good bacteria fall.
• Colon lining inflammation – both cause discomfort and pain.
• Deficient assimilation of nutrients – you might feel faint or anaemic.
• Alterations in motility – excessive speed or slowness of movement along the gut.

The National Cancer Institute (NCI) indicates that cancer inflammation may disorient the usual gut functions resulting in nausea and loss of nutrients.

5. Treatment of Digestive Problems resulting due to colorectal cancer

It begins with a strategy in managing digestive problems induced by colorectal cancer. Here are practical tips:

Diet Adjustments

• Eat small, frequent meals.
• Add soluble fiber (oatmeal, bananas, applesauce) to loosen diarrhea.
• Eat whole grains and fresh vegetables to avoid constipation.

Hydration

• Drink 8–10 glasses of water daily.
• Take broth-based soups or electrolyte drinks if you are experiencing diarrhea.

Probiotics and Supplements

• Ask your physician about a daily probiotic to balance gut flora.
• Use digestive enzymes if you have trouble breaking down food.

Medications

• Anti-diarrheal drugs (loperamide) for severe diarrhea.
• Stool softeners (docusate sodium) for constipation.

According to Dr. Pothuri, simple alterations in diet and special supplements can really help a lot.

6. Colorectal Cancer and Digestive Side Effects Treatment

Colorectal cancer is treated using various treatments. Each has its own effects on digestion:

Type of Treatment : Benefits in the digestive standard of side effects

Surgery (Colectomy)

- Changes in bowel frequency
- Gas, bloating
- Risk of short bowel syndrome

Chemotherapy

- Nausea, vomiting
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Mucositis (purulent oral and intestinal sores)

Radiation Therapy

- Diarrhea
- Rectal irritation

Targeted Therapy

- Nausea
- Abdominal pain
- Altered appetite

When you are informed about what to expect, you can make plans to deal with these side effects. An overview of treatments and digestive side effects of colorectal cancer can be found in the Mayo Clinic.

7. Nutritional Support of Colorectal Cancer Literature

Nourishment in the body is crucial for healing. Nutritional support for colorectal cancer patients includes:

High-Protein Foods

• Lean poultry such as chicken and turkey
• Eggs and Greek yogurt
• Legumes (lentils, beans)

High-Calorie Snacks

• Nut butter on whole-grain toast
• Trail mix with nuts and dried fruit
• Smoothies with protein powder

Easy-to-Digest Foods

• Mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes
• Smooth soups (pumpkin, carrot)
• Soft-cooked vegetables (zucchini, squash)

Supplement Options

• Oral nutritional supplements (Ensure, Boost)
• Calcium and vitamin D if deficient
• Omega-3 fatty acids for inflammation control

Herbal therapy is essential, and it’s recommended to visit a diet expert with extensive knowledge about digestive issues related to cancer.

8. City of Houston, TX Local Resources

If you live in Houston, excellent cancer care and support are nearby:

• MD Anderson Cancer Center – expert oncologists and clinical trials
• Memorial Hermann Cancer Center – integrative nutrition services
• Texas Children’s Hospital (for pediatric cases)
• Local support groups via the ACS Houston Chapter

Gastrodoxs collaborates with Houston dietitians and support networks. We can refer you to local experts focused on digestive health during cancer treatment.

Conclusion

Colorectal cancer may deeply affect digestion and gut wellness. The positive side is that most patients maintain high quality of life when guided early, with the right plan and nutritional support. Gastrodoxs is connected in Houston with top specialists, dietitians, and support facilities. If you have questions about colorectal cancer’s effect on digestion and bowel movements—or any gut concern—reach out. Your gut health matters.

You have just read our guide on how colorectal cancer affects digestive health. For more amiable, expert-backed tips, visit Gastrodoxs. We’re here to assist every step of the way!

About the Author

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.