Colon cancer affects around millions of people in the world. Even though its death rate is not as high as the death rate of other cancers, of course, if the disease is diagnosed timely, newest research has shown that nearly half of colon cancer cases can be prevented with the help of specific measures.
The Function of the Colon
The colon or the large intestine is a vital organ which needs to be cleaned and healthy all the time in order for us to remain healthy. The role of the colon is to excrete toxins and other waste from the body. However, when its proper functioning is prevented, toxins will begin accumulating and thus, cause different health issues.
How to Prevent Colon Cancer
According to experts, balanced vitamin D levels and a healthy diet consisted of veggies, fruits, and foods rich in fiber are vital. The consumption of processed foods and junk food, as well as sugar, should be eliminated. Furthermore, meat, especially red, is one of the major cancer-causing foods and it has been associated with colon cancer numerous times.
What Causes Colon Cancer?
5 to 10% of colon cancers are caused by genetics, 35% by an unhealthy diet, whereas 30% are caused by smoking, and 20% by infections. The rest of colon cancer cases happen due to some of the following reasons:
Lack of fruits and veggies in the diet
Fresh fruits and veggies have potent antioxidants and magnesium which can lower the chance of colon cancer. Moreover, the phytochemicals which they contain can decrease tissue inflammation and eliminate cancerous substances. Therefore, consume more green leafy veggies, plums, and apples.
Lack of fiber
Fiber from food is known to better the digestion, so, adding 10 grams to your diet, lowers the risk of cancer by 10%! You can consume plums, flaxseed, and Chia seeds.
Low levels of vitamin D
In order to increase the levels of vitamin D, we need the sunlight; however, there are also supplements and also foods which naturally contain this vitamin.
Excessive intake of alcohol
Alcohol abuse is one of the major risk factors for this type of cancer. Of course, a drink or two per day cannot harm you, however, drinking excessive amounts regularly, will only increase the risk of cancer and numerous other health problems.
Lack of garlic in the diet
Garlic is a very healthy veggie which possesses potent antibacterial characteristics which can lower the risk of cancer. Garlic is so potent that it will strengthen your immunity and help it fight off illnesses and infections easier.
Overweight and obesity
Maintaining a balanced weight is crucial if you want to prevent colon cancer. According to a study done back in 2014, people who are overweight are more likely to get colon cancer.
Sedentary lifestyle
Poor physical activity increases the chance of cancer by 30 to 40%. Namely, when you’re physically active on a daily basis, you improve the blood flow and neutralize harmful pathogens in the body and thus, decrease the chance of cancer. Exercising on a regular basis is also a good way to strengthen the immunity and prevent different diseases.
Red meat
Newest studies have shown that red meat can cause colon cancer. However, the issue isn’t the meat itself, but the way it’s made. Hence, red meat is often genetically modified and the cows from which it comes are not grass-fed, but fed with glyphosate that destroys the good bacteria in the gut and causes further complications.
Processed meats
Meats like bacon, ham, burgers, salami, and pepperoni can be detrimental for one’s health. Even though they taste great, don’t be fooled, they’re a major cancer-causing food!