Colon cancer or colorectal cancer is one of the most common types of cancer that affects both men and women, especially in older age. Even though colon cancer is treatable and beatable if caught early, it is the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths.
An important risk factor for colorectal cancer is diet, whereas other risk factors are genetic and unhealthy lifestyle choices. Proper nutrition is highly essential for your colon health but knowing the diet that helps avoid colon cancer is very crucial.
Dr. Parameshwara C M, the best colorectal surgeon at SMILES outlined a list of some of the best foods that help beat colon cancer.
5 Foods that fight Colon Cancer
Here are the top five foods that fight colon cancer.
1. Cruciferous Vegetables
Cruciferous vegetables such as cauliflower, cabbage, kale, and broccoli are rich in nutrients, vitamins, minerals and also a good source of fiber. Eating cruciferous vegetables on a regular basis helps fight against colon cancer.
2. Fiber-rich foods
According to colorectal experts, dietary fiber plays a major role in colon health and helps protect against colorectal cancer. Foods rich in fiber add bulk to stools and promotes bowel health. Fruits, beans, nuts, legumes, and whole grains are good sources of high fiber.
3. Turmeric
The spice turmeric is well known for its health-promoting properties. An antioxidant such as curcumin, the yellow pigment in turmeric has anticancer effects. Most importantly, curcumin helps to stop the spread of cancer cells in the colon and rectum by targeting an enzyme of cancer growth.
4. Milk
Research studies have found that milk and milk products play a significant role in fighting colon cancer. This protective effect of milk is probably due to the calcium, and other components of milk such as Vitamin D, butyric acid, and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA) also help in protecting against colon cancer.
5. Garlic
Do you know that garlic can prevent colon cancer? Yes. Garlic and its compounds help to prevent colon cancer and slow down the growth of cancer cells thus decreases inflammation.
Intake of foods with garlic not only reduce the risk of colon cancer but also cancers such as stomach, esophagus, pancreas, and breast.
While maintaining a healthy diet to lower the risk of colon cancer, the most important thing to consider is to get a colonoscopy screening. For people who are at normal risk, a colonoscopy should begin at age 50.
Need extra help in relation to the best diet for colon cancer? Consult the best colorectal doctors in Bangalore at SMILES Institute.
