Colorectal Cancer

Although colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United States, it often goes undetected, according to the American Cancer Society, because symptoms do not usually occur until the disease is advanced.

Colorectal cancer affects both men and women equally. With the risk of cancer increasing after age 50, health experts recommend a colonoscopy for adults starting at age 50. If you have a family history of colorectal cancer, certain gastroenterological conditions or diseases, eat a diet high in fat content or smoke, you are at a higher risk of developing colorectal cancer.

A healthy diet can do wonders for your colon health. Some dietary modifications that may help prevent or even treat colon cancer include:

• Avoiding processed/cured meats
• Consuming colorful fruits and veggies
• Cutting out saturated fat
• Eating foods high in dietary fiber
• Getting enough omega-3 fatty acids
• Limiting your salt intake
• Reducing alcohol consumption
• Restricting the amount of red meat you eat

Eating foods high in fiber—both soluble and insoluble—is a great way to clean out your colon and help prevent the development of colorectal cancer.