As a Clinical Dietitian, I work with a variety of patients at the hospital battling different medical issues. Although nutrition plays a major role in the treatment of illness, I believe that it plays an even bigger role in the prevention of illness and disease.
I love blogging and writing articles to share my nutrition knowledge, especially on topics focusing on prevention. My latest article for Retroflexions Medical Blog focuses on nutritional strategies to prevent colon cancer. There are several strategies that you and your loved ones can incorporate into your eating/lifestyle routine to help reduce your risk of developing colon cancer. Here is a short excerpt from the article:
“Let food be thy medicine, and medicine be thy food.” – Hippocrates
This simple quote is one of the reasons why I entered the dietetics field; good nutrition has the power to both prevent and cure disease. Diet specifically plays a tremendous role in cancer prevention and treatment. Unfortunately, most of us know a friend or family member who is battling cancer. Since we have control over our food and lifestyle habits, it’s critical that we make healthy choices now to prevent disease and maximize longevity.
When it comes to colon cancer, diet is considered a determinant of increased colon cancer risk. The American Institute for Cancer Research has estimated that about 45% of colorectal cancer cases could be prevented through a healthy diet, physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight! This provides tremendous incentive for us to take control of our lifestyle habits and make a positive change.
Below are a few main strategies that summarize the important aspects of colorectal cancer prevention. By incorporating these strategies into your weekly routine, you’ll be able to reap the benefits of a nutritious and balanced lifestyle.
Eat A Rainbow Of Fruits & Vegetables: A high-fiber diet has been found to reduce colorectal cancer risk; for every 10 grams of fiber you consume, your risk of colorectal cancer is reduced by 10%! Fiber is found in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans, and nuts. You can increase your fiber intake by making a goal to eat a piece of fruit or serving of vegetables at every meal. Look for a wide variety of colorful fruits and vegetables to get a diverse array of healthy phytonutrients and antioxidants.
Limit Processed and Red Meats: Numerous studies have shown a link between excessive processed and red meat consumption and increased risk of colorectal cancer. You don’t have to completely give up red meat to live a healthy life, but limiting your consumption is a wise decision. Try to have no more than 8 ounces of red meat per week, and be sure to limit your intake of processed, salted, and cured meats as much as possible. Focus on lean sources of protein such as chicken, turkey, and fish. Participate inMeatless Mondays by eating vegetarian for one day of the week; this allows you to prioritize plant-based eating and enjoy vegetarian proteins such as beans, nuts, and whole grains.
Avoid Excess Alcohol: Research has found that increased alcohol intake is related to a higher colorectal cancer risk. A meta-analysis of 57 cohort and case-controlled studies found that participants who regularly...
Read the full article here:
Xoxo,
Stef