Dietary Guidelines for Preventing Colon Cancer

The last part of our digestive system consists of the bowel, a body part commonly referred to as colon or large intestine. The primary functions of the colon are storing the waste products formed after digestion of food and emptying them into our rectum for final elimination. As a person starts growing in age his risk of developing colon cancer increases. The other most common risk factor of this cancer type in heredity; if you have family history of colon cancer, you are at higher risk of getting the disease. Following certain dietary guidelines can help in reducing one’s risk of having colon cancer. Below, we have presented some useful dietary tips for preventing colon cancer.

1. A diet plan meant for colon cancer prevention should contain plenty of fresh vegetables and fruits. The vegetables are fruits contain all the essential minerals and vitamins required for normal functioning of our organs. These food types are rich in antioxidants and phytochemcials, which work by preventing cell damage. Phytochemcials are specifically useful in preventing toxic buildup within the colon; they are also known for preventing inflammation and tumor growth. The antioxidants on the other hand prevent damage of healthy cells by attacking the free radicals created while the breakdown of food occurs. The vegetables and fruits that contain maximum amount of antioxidants and phytochemcials are: broccoli, sweet potatoes, cantaloupe, citrus fruits and berries. For leading a healthy disease free life one much consume 5 to 9 servings of vegetables and fruits every day.
2. The next most essential part of a colon cancer preventing diet plan I whole grain. As whole grains do not get bleaches, refined or processed in time of preparation, the nutrients and fiber in them stay intact. Intake of adequate amount of fiber ensures that our bowels are cleared regularly. This reduces the risk of colon cancer significantly. Some of the whole grains that can be part of a colon cancer preventing diet are: wheat pasta or breads, oatmeal, brown rice and bran cereals.
3. Food items rich in saturated fats for instance are known to inhibit health bowels. Thus for preventing colon cancer successfully one must stay away from all the food items containing high levels of saturated fats. To do that replace red meat with leaner meats like turkey or chicken and fishes like tuna and salmon.

A slight modification to our everyday diet can help us to remain fit and free from the peril of colon cancer.