The Role of Diet and Lifestyle in Preventing Colorectal Cancer
Colorectal cancer, as dangerous as it sounds, generally starts as harmless polyps that eventually grow cancerous in about 10-15 years. Family history is not always the reason neither is old age. However, various lifestyle factors are the major reasons for the growth of colorectal cancer cells. It is actually because of factors like : high intake of red & processed meat, low fibre intake, obesity, smoking etc. According to various studies, a better diet, physical activity, and healthy habits can actually reduce the chances of developing this kind of cancer.
Diet & Nutrition
Your colorectal health directly depends on what you eat. Consumption of more and more red meat or processed meats can increase your risk of colorectal cancer. While on the other hand, consumption of a diet rich in fruit fibers, vegetable fibres, fibers from whole grains & legumes can help in improving digestive health and reduce the chances of cancer. While leafy greens, berries and citrus fruits, those rich in antioxidants and vitamins, helps in neutralizing free radicals that may damage cells, fibre, on the other hand, helps in improving bowel movement and promotes beneficial gut bacteria and also prevents chronic inflammation. Reducing the intake of alcohol and reducing sugar consumption can also strengthen overall gut health.
Weight Management & Physical Activity
Sedentary or inactive lifestyle highly increases the risk of colorectal cancer. WIth just a moderate 30 minutes of regular exercise (walking, cycling, swimming, etc), one can create a significant difference. Regular physical activity can easily reduce the chances of inflammation, improve immunity, regulate hormones along with help in maintaining a healthy body weight.
Lifestyle Habits
Smoking and consumption of alcohol are a primary reason for development of a number of cancers. One of them is colorectal cancer. Heavy alcohol consumption and smoking can significantly increase the risk of colorectal cancer. Not just this, adequate sleep, stress management, proper hydration etc can help in maintaining healthy bodily functions along with digestive health.
Preventive Screening
Though you maintain a proper diet and lifestyle, manage your weight efficiently, regular screening plays a vital role in early detection and prevention. Colonoscopies and other tests can help identify these early polyps before they turn aggressive and cancerous. According to experts, you should start your frequent screening by the time you reach 45 or earlier if you have a family history of cancers.
Remember, colorectal cancer is preventable. With better lifestyle choices and dietary intake, one can easily reduce the chances of colorectal cancer. Consuming a diet rich in fibre, going for regular brisk exercise, maintaining healthy body weight, avoiding tobacco and alcohol, one can build a strong defence against polyps or colorectal cancer. On the other hand, timely screenings are as important as it helps in early detection. If you still feel not confident and have doubts about your colorectal health, visit Dr. Ranajit kar, Senior radiation oncologist.