In the US, colorectal cancer is the 2nd leading cause of death with the ratio 1 in every 20 people will get Colon Cancer.

It’s official researchers from WHO’s International Agency for Research on Cancer in Lyon, France, says that processed meats such as sausage ham hotdog and red meat can specifically lead to Colon cancer.

Other common risk factors for colon cancer are age, obesity, smoking, drinking more than 3 alcoholic drinks a day. It is also hereditary.

Colon cancer is considered one of the deadliest and there are no guarantees when it comes to cancer treatment or recovery. Some medical experts believe that even after treatment, cancer, especially the ones who are cancer free for 5 years.

Cancer starts when your immune system is weak which also affects your body’s defence mechanism to properly combat viruses. One bad cell begins to multiply out of control and starts to invade the healthy cells and tissues spreading to the parts of your body.

According to the National Cancer Institute eighty percent of cancers are due to factors that have been recognized and can potentially be controlled. With a healthy lifestyle and positive attitude we can actually defend ourselves from viruses that may lead to cancer.

A lot has been said about controlling or treating cancers. It now boils down to the major risk factor which is your diet, which is about 35%-60% that contributes to the total condition of our well-being. Meaning we are what we eat.

Eating healthy foods makes you healthy, while eating unhealthy food makes you sick. This is basic and universal knowledge to all. The relation between diet and cancer is not new.

Studies have shown that people consuming diets rich in grains, vegetables and fruits that contains minerals, vitamins, photochemical and antioxidants boost the immune system.

On the other hand, studies have revealed that cancer is much more widespread in populations consuming diets rich in fatty foods, predominantly meat that has carcinogenic compounds.

It is our own responsibility to make ourselves healthier. Here are some foods that can directly prevent or treat colon cancer.

1. Tuna

Tuna has good fats that are not only significant for cancer prevention and your hearts health. Selenium which is also found in tuna helps in minimizing cell mutation risk. It has remarkable supply of essential omega-3 and omega 6 fatty acids.

2. Yogurt

Yogurt prevents in the formation of tumors, acts as an inhibitory screen against polyps. The by-products of yogurt help in increasing the acidity in your colon, aids in acceleration of bowel movement and has extra fiber that promotes fast waste elimination.

The probiotic bacterium in the yogurt balances your resident flora, and prevents the migration of possible pathogens.

3. Broccoli

Diinodylmethane and sulforaphane, the two of the most powerful anti-cancerous agents in nature is found in Broccoli.

It is the top most vegetable for colon cancer and to fight off diseases. The collective efficacy of these two chemicals can successfully contain tumor growth in even the more antagonistic types of cancers.

You can get more than 150% of your recommended daily intake (RDI) of vitamin C and 20% RDI of dietary fibre with just one cup lightly cooked broccoli.

It is also an exceptional source of vitamins A, E and K as well as foliate, which are all significant to your digestive functions and immunity of the colon cancer patient.

4. Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are considered the super food for colon cancer prevention. They are also very effective for relieving constipation and irritable bowels. It is also an excellent source of dietary fibre, antioxidants and complex carbohydrates.

Sweet Potatoes speeds up the movement of your bowels, lessen your colon’s exposure to toxins, and significantly lower the probability of intestinal cell mutations if taken on high doses. Lastly, sweet potatoes act as a defence against colon cancer because it contains high levels of Phytosterols.

Acceptable Foods

Generally, a plant-based diet that provides the recommended daily allowance will be beneficial to the cancer patient. Some examples of fruits include berries, bananas, melons and apples.

Carrots and green leafy vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli and spinach are some high-quality examples of vegetables. Fruits and vegetables also provide sources of dietary fibre, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.

Experts suggest that a diet rich in whole-grains may also lessen the risk for colon cancer. A good source of whole-grains and other nutrients are whole-grain breads, pasta, rice and cereal. Legumes, nuts, seeds and fish offer sources of protein and essential fatty acids.

Weight loss, taste changes and anorexia are the variety of nutrition-related symptoms that have an effect on the health of colon cancer patients.

They should consult a registered dietician for the healthiest food options specific to colon cancer and know what not to eat. Eating the wrong foods aggravate their condition.

Therefore, proper diet is necessary for reducing symptoms and can help in getting your strength back. A diet that consists of foods that will maintain an ideal healthy weight and can avert cancer progression may be helpful for cancer patients.

Read More: Hold Colon Cancer At Bay: Avoid These 7 Foods To Reduce Risk

Foods To Avoid

Colon cancer patients should limit the consumption of foods high in saturated fat and sodium, according to medical experts. Fried foods, red meat and dairy products contain elevated fats. Foods that have high levels of sodium include commercially packaged and processed goods.

Also, always avoid snacks that has Trans fat and sodium like crackers, frozen dinners, condiments and canned goods.

Processed dairy products and meats such as hotdog, luncheon meat, bacon sausage, and ham also contain elevated amounts of sodium. In adding up to high-fat and high-sodium foods, tobacco and alcohol should definitely be avoided for colon cancer patients.