Reviewed by Dietitian Emily Lachtrupp, M.S., RD
Key Points:
– Consuming red and processed meats can increase the risk of colon cancer.
– Switching red and processed meats to lean, unprocessed proteins like chicken and legumes may help lower the risk.
– Lifestyle factors such as tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and activity level can impact the risk of colorectal cancer.
– March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, making it a good time to focus on colon health.
– Gastrointestinal specialist and oncologist Dr. Christopher G. Cann discusses important risk factors for colon cancer.
Reducing Your Colon Cancer Risk:
One key factor in reducing the risk of colon cancer is diet. Dr. Cann emphasizes the importance of limiting a specific food group in your regular diet. Here’s what you need to know, an easy swap to consider, and other potential risks to be aware of.
The Top Food to Limit for Lowering Colon Cancer Risk:
Reducing the consumption of red and processed meats is crucial for lowering the risk of colorectal cancer. Dr. Cann explains how red meat and processed meats like deli meat and hot dogs can impact colon health.
Recent studies, including one from the American Association for Cancer Research in 2021, have shown that regular intake of red and processed meat can increase the risk of colon cancer. Additionally, red meat consumption has been linked to heart disease, dementia, and weakened immune function.
Although Dr. Cann advises against completely eliminating any specific foods or drinks from your diet, he does stress the importance of moderation. While you can still enjoy red meat occasionally, opting for leaner proteins like chicken, fish, or plant-based alternatives is advisable.
Other Habits to Limit:
In addition to reducing processed red meat intake, Dr. Cann suggests limiting other habits to lower the risk of colon cancer:
– Alcohol consumption: Excessive alcohol intake can elevate the risk of various cancers, including colon cancer.
– Tobacco use: Smoking not only affects lung and mouth health but also increases the likelihood of colorectal cancer.
– Sedentary lifestyle: Regular physical activity can decrease the risk of colon cancer by up to 30%.
In Conclusion:
Being mindful of your diet and lifestyle choices can significantly impact your risk of colon cancer. By making simple changes, such as reducing red meat consumption and adopting healthier habits, you can take proactive steps towards maintaining a healthy colon.
Reducing your risk of colon cancer can be achieved by adjusting your diet. An oncologist suggests cutting back on red and processed meats, as well as moderating alcohol consumption, tobacco use, and sedentary habits. It is crucial to pay attention to your body’s signals, as even minor symptoms should not be ignored. Dr. Cann stresses the importance of seeking evaluation if any concerns arise. Learn more about lowering your mortality risk with a simple swap in this article from EATINGWELL.
