Colon cancer is one of the most common types of cancer among both men and women. It is a slow-growing cancer, which means that early detection and prevention can make a significant difference in improving the outcomes.

While there are some risk factors for colon cancer that cannot be avoided, such as age and family history, there are several things that you can do to reduce your risk of developing this type of cancer. Here are some of the easy ways to avoid colon cancer:.

1. Eat a healthy diet

Eating a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help reduce your risk of colon cancer. Research has shown that people who consume a diet high in red and processed meats are at a higher risk of developing colon cancer.

Eating a diet that is high in fiber and low in fat can help reduce your risk.

2. Exercise regularly

Regular exercise can help reduce your risk of colon cancer by improving your overall health and lowering your risk of obesity.

Exercise also helps your body to move waste through the intestines more quickly and efficiently, reducing your exposure to harmful toxins that can lead to cancer.

3. Stop smoking

Smoking can increase your risk of colon cancer. If you smoke, quitting can help reduce your risk of developing this type of cancer as well as a range of other health issues.

4. Limit alcohol intake

Drinking alcohol in excess can increase your risk of colon cancer, so it is important to limit your alcohol intake. Men should have no more than two drinks per day, while women should have no more than one drink per day.

5. Get screened

Regular screening is one of the best ways to prevent colon cancer. If you are over 50 years old, you should get screened for colon cancer every 10 years.

If you have a family history of colon cancer, you may need to start screening earlier and get more frequent screenings.

6. Know your family history

If you have a family history of colon cancer, it is important to be aware of your risk. Talk to your doctor about whether you need to be screened for colon cancer earlier or more frequently than recommended based on your age.

7. Take supplements

Some supplements, such as calcium and vitamin D, have been shown to help reduce the risk of colon cancer. Talk to your doctor about whether you should be taking supplements and in what dosage.

8. Manage your weight

Being overweight or obese can increase your risk of colon cancer, so it is important to manage your weight through diet and exercise. Talk to your doctor about what a healthy weight is for you and what steps you can take to achieve and maintain it.

9. Reduce stress

Stress can increase your risk of colon cancer by affecting your immune system and digestive processes. Reducing stress through techniques such as meditation, yoga, or exercise can help lower your risk.

10. Get enough sleep

Getting enough sleep is essential for overall health and can help reduce your risk of colon cancer. Aim for seven to nine hours of sleep each night.

Conclusion

While there is no surefire way to avoid colon cancer, adopting a healthy lifestyle can help reduce your risk.

By eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, not smoking, limiting alcohol intake, getting screened, knowing your family history, taking supplements, managing your weight, reducing stress, and getting enough sleep, you can take steps to protect yourself from this common cancer.