Colon cancer is cancer of the large intestine (colon), which is the final part of the digestive tract. According to the American Cancer Society, colon cancer is the third most common cancer in both men and women.

While there is no one cause of colon cancer, several risk factors can increase a person’s chances of developing the disease.

These risk factors include age, family history of colon cancer, a diet high in red and processed meats, smoking, and a sedentary lifestyle.

However, research has shown that certain natural ingredients can help prevent or slow the growth of colon cancer. Here are ten of these natural ingredients:.

1. Curcumin

Curcumin is a compound found in the spice turmeric. Research has shown that curcumin can slow the growth of colon cancer cells and also shrink tumors.

In addition, curcumin has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the inflammation in the colon that can lead to colon cancer. One study found that curcumin inhibited the growth of colon cancer cells by up to 80 percent.

2. Broccoli

Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable that contains a compound called sulforaphane. Research has shown that sulforaphane can help prevent colon cancer by inhibiting the growth of cancer cells and promoting their death.

In addition, sulforaphane can help reduce inflammation in the colon and improve gut health.

3. Green Tea

Green tea is rich in antioxidants called catechins, which have been shown to have anticancer properties. Research has shown that catechins can inhibit the growth of colon cancer cells and also promote their death.

Green tea can also help reduce inflammation in the colon and improve gut health. One study found that drinking five or more cups of green tea per day was associated with a 31 percent decrease in colon cancer risk.

4. Garlic

Garlic is a bulb that contains compounds called organosulfur compounds, which have anticancer properties. Research has shown that these compounds can inhibit the growth of colon cancer cells and also promote their death.

Garlic can also help reduce inflammation in the colon and improve gut health.

5. Ginger

Ginger is a root that contains compounds called gingerols, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Research has shown that gingerols can inhibit the growth of colon cancer cells and also promote their death.

In addition, ginger can help reduce inflammation in the colon and improve gut health.

6. Berries

Berries are rich in antioxidants called anthocyanins, which have been shown to have anticancer properties. Research has shown that anthocyanins can inhibit the growth of colon cancer cells and also promote their death.

Berries can also help reduce inflammation in the colon and improve gut health.

7. Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of healthy fat found in fatty fish like salmon and sardines, as well as in walnuts and flaxseeds.

Research has shown that omega-3 fatty acids can help prevent colon cancer by reducing inflammation in the colon and promoting the death of cancer cells. One study found that people who ate a diet high in omega-3 fatty acids had a 41 percent lower risk of colon cancer.

8. Vitamin D

Vitamin D is a vitamin that is naturally produced by the body when the skin is exposed to sunlight. Research has shown that vitamin D can help prevent colon cancer by promoting the death of cancer cells and reducing their growth.

In addition, vitamin D can help reduce inflammation in the colon and improve gut health.

9. Mushrooms

Mushrooms are rich in a compound called ergothioneine, which has antioxidant properties. Research has shown that ergothioneine can inhibit the growth of colon cancer cells and also promote their death.

In addition, mushrooms can help reduce inflammation in the colon and improve gut health.

10. Folate

Folate is a B vitamin that is found in leafy green vegetables, legumes, and fortified cereals. Research has shown that folate can help prevent colon cancer by promoting the death of cancer cells and reducing their growth.

In addition, folate can help reduce inflammation in the colon and improve gut health.

While these natural ingredients can help prevent or slow the growth of colon cancer, it is important to note that they are not a substitute for medical treatment.

If you have been diagnosed with colon cancer, it is important to work with your healthcare provider to develop a treatment plan that is right for you.