What to Eat and Avoid to Prevent Colorectal Cancer

Posted by Clinical Care Options, LLC on December 20th, 2019

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is a condition that starts in the colon, rectum, or both. It's common, specifically among older adults. Experts say that diet is an important risk factor, which is why it needs to be well-balanced. Being smart with the food you consume can make you feel better, give you strength, and speed your recovery time.

What to Avoid

Eating your favorite burger might be tempting for your taste buds, but doing so can mean bad news to your colon. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), red meat is associated with a higher risk of CRC. It refers to all muscle meat, including beef, pork, lamb, goat, veal, mutton, and horse.

You should also limit the appearance of processed ones on your plate. Items under this category are those that are cured, salted, smoked, or preserved with chemicals. There's bacon, bologna, ham, hot dog, and packaged luncheon meat. Eating them can also raise your chances of having stomach cancer.

Another item that should be off the table is alcohol. Think wines, beers, and liquors. Consuming those every now and then might not affect your odds of having CRC, but heavier drinking can. Experts estimate the risk increases 20% for moderate drinking and 40% for heavy drinking. If you're one to have more than 3 glasses a day, consult your doctor about being screened for colorectal cancer.

What to Eat

Whole grains are packed with nutrients and are good sources of fiber and magnesium. They promote healthy bowel movements, which may grab onto cancer-causing compounds in your colon along the way. Tip: Aim for 1 cup daily. Try adding whole wheat bread, brown rice, or oatmeal to your list of options.

Many studies agree that dairy products can lower your chances of CRC and adenomas, or colon growths. Aside from those, calcium-rich supplements are recommended. For this, it's always best to talk to your physician about what's right for you. Adding vitamin D to milk might offer protection, but research is still ongoing.

One study from Loma Linda University in California suggested that a vegetarian-style diet is linked to a lower risk of colorectal cancer. Researchers took a close look at four types of plant-based diets. Those were:

• Vegan - strictly no food items of animal origin
• Flexitarian - includes fish and meat sparingly
• Lacto-Ovo - has eggs and dairy
• Pescatarian - incorporates fish only

Colorful fruits also contain natural substances that can fight or block the growth of cancer cells. Experts say that your best bets are cabbage, broccoli, and vitamin C-rich variants like oranges, pineapples, and lemons.

According to a colorectal cancer CE, or continuing education course, people who make smart food choices have lower chances of getting the disease. The study also found that those who exercise and keep a healthy weight can cut their odds of developing the disease over a third.