Know Food Items That Can Prevent Colorectal Cancer!

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer worldwide after lung cancer and breast cancer, particularly among the ageing population. A number of biological and lifestyle factors combined together can put you at risk of having this type of cancer. One such important risk factor is your diet. 

Several studies have shown that poor diet and unhealthy food choices increase your likelihood of developing cancer of the rectum or colon whereas smart food choices can help lower the risk for the same. 

Here are some foods that can help reduce your chances of getting colorectal cancer –

• Dairy products

There have been considerable research and studies claiming that dairy products rich in calcium and other vitamins may help lower the risk of colorectal cancer. Therefore, you should add more dairy products to your daily diet. Milk, cheese, and yoghurt are some of the popular sources of vital nutrients. 

• Whole grains

Whole grains, such as brown rice, whole wheat bread, and oatmeal, brown rice are loaded with essential nutrients and make for excellent sources of fibre and magnesium. Both the elements help to keep your stools moving. Along the way, these can grab onto the compounds causing cancer of the colon. Make sure you are eating at least 90 grams of whole grains every day. 

• Legumes and beans 

Beans and other forms of legumes – for example, lentils, soybeans, and peas – are rich in protein, fibre, and vitamins E and B. Beans contain a certain compound called flavonoid, which can avert the growth of tumours, as well as specific antioxidants that can help safeguard you against colon cancer. Try to swap one of your regular side dishes for nutritious black beans, or have a hearty bowl of soup.

• Leafy greens and fruits

Green vegetables and fruits have phytochemicals, natural substances that can block the cancer cells from growing or fight off the inflammation that may fuel cancer. There have been mixed results obtained from various researches linking veggies and fruits to averting colon cancer. However, organizations for cancer recommend them as part of a healthy diet. Include plenty of cabbage, broccoli, and citrus fruits like oranges to your every-day diet. 

• Fatty fish

Fatty fishes, such as salmon are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are excellent for heart health and can slow the growth of cancer cells. However, whether eating fish can completely protect you against colorectal cancer is not clear. Evidence suggests that people who consumed sufficient amounts of fish instead of processed meat and red meat had a low risk of getting colorectal cancer. However, be sure to limit or avoid consumption of King mackerel and swordfish, as they are likely to contain mercury and other pollutants that may affect your health in the long run. 

Whether you are undergoing treatment for colorectal cancer or not, speak with your doctor and consult a dietician, who can help you make changes to your lifestyle or diet. Healthy eating combined with regular exercise and weight management may help people cut their odds of having colorectal cancer.