Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in both men and women; it is also the second leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, a month set aside to increase awareness and education of colon cancer. According to the American Institute for Cancer Research, almost half (47%) of colorectal cancer could be prevented or significantly delayed with lifestyle and diet modifications. Here are five ways to help you fight colorectal cancer.
1. Plant food intake that is high in fiber.
The 2015-2020 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends a daily intake of 2 ½ cups of vegetables, 2 cups of fruit, and 6 oz. of grains (half of which is encouraged to be whole grains). If you are someone who doesn’t consume a lot of plant foods, these amounts can seem unattainable. This goal can be made less intimidating by including ½ cup of vegetables and fruits at each of your meals and snacks. Before you know it, you will be a pro at eating your fruits and vegetables. By choosing to eat more fruits and vegetables you will be increasing your fiber intake at the same time.
2. Limit intake of red meats and avoid intake of processed meats.
Diets high in the red meats (beef, pork, and lamb) and intake of processed meats (bacon, sausage, hot dogs, and cold cuts) increase your risk of developing colorectal cancer. To reduce your risk, it is recommended to consume less than 18 oz. per week of red meats and avoid intake of processed meats. This doesn’t mean you can’t eat any meats. There are many options available to increase the variety of meats you consume. Meats that don’t carry these same risks are poultry (chicken, turkey, and etc.) and seafood (tuna, shrimp, salmon, cod, and etc.).
3. Limit alcohol intake.
If alcohol is something that you consume, it is recommended to limit daily intake to 1 drink (12 oz. of beer, 5 oz. of wine, 1.5 oz. of liquor).
4. Increase physical activity.
Try to be physically active for at least 30 minutes each day. Activity can be simple and broken up throughout the day, 15 minutes in the morning and another 15 minutes after work is one way to reach the daily goal. Exercise may include walking, hiking, biking, running, swimming, or something that gets you moving. The important thing to do is to remember to move your body.
5. Prevent weight gain throughout life.
Increasing your plant food intake and physical activity will help prevent weight gain throughout life. If you are already considered overweight or obese, weight loss can help reduce your risk as well.
In addition to making lifestyle and diet modifications, it’s important to reduce your risk of colorectal cancer by getting regular colon screenings beginning at age 45. To learn more about colon screenings, visit our Diagnostics page.