The American Cancer Society estimates that over 100,000 Americans are diagnosed with colon cancer every year. There are unavoidable risk factors like age and family history, but there are definitely things you can do to reduce your risk of contracting colon cancer. Follow these 6 tips and reduce your chance of being diagnosed with colon cancer.
Avoid Processed Meats
Processed meats like packaged lunch meats and certain cuts of red meat are high in saturated fats and have been associated with an increased risk of colon cancer. Cut back on your intake of red meat to less than 20 ounces a week and completely eliminate bacon, sausage and hot dogs, the most dangerous processed meats.
Eat Healthy Fats
Fats get a bad reputation, but not all fats are bad for you. Make sure you choose unsaturated fats and avoid trans fats, this will improve your colon health. To lower your cholesterol levels, go for the polyunsaturated fats. Omega-3 fatty acids like salmon, flaxseed and walnuts are great to introduce into your daily diet as well.
Increase Your Fiber Intake
Fiber is great for colon health; it increases your metabolism and keeps food moving along through the digestive track.
Avoid Alcohol
Alcohol can irritate and damage the tissues in the digestive system. In moderation alcohol is usually okay, but overuse wreaks havoc on the colon and can raise your risk of cancer.
More Fruits and Veggies
There is a proven link between increased fruit and vegetable consumption and lower risk of colon cancer. It is possible that they can reduce your cancer risk by up to 25%.
It’s All in the Preparation
Eating healthy isn’t enough, it is important that you prepare all of your food in a safe way. Burning or overly charring your meats while barbecuing creates carcinogens which are harmful to your colon health.
For any questions regarding your colon health, visit the GI Doctor online at http://www.gidoctor.com/ or call us at (310) 271-1122.