Various types of potatoes. A staple food, or simply a staple, is a food that is eaten routinely and in such quantities that it constitutes a dominant portion of a standard diet for a given people, supplying a large fraction of energy needs and generally forming a significant proportion of the intake of other nutrients as well.
Constipation is defined medically as fewer than three stools per week and severe constipation as less than one stool per week. Constipation usually is caused by the slow movement of stool through the colon.
In addition to thin stools, colon cancer can cause: 1  Changes in bowel movement frequency (for example, diarrhea or constipation) 2  Abdominal bloating and cramping. 3  Rectal bleeding.  Blood in the stool, which may cause black or dark 1  stools. Weight loss that is unintentional.  Loss of 1  energy. Loss of appetite.