Being diagnosed with bowel cancer can be overwhelming, and there’s a lot to think about – from what treatments to consider to how to manage side effects.

As a foodie, you may wonder how your diet may affect your cancer or if there are any foods that could help you to manage symptoms. While there are no miracle cures or one-size-fits-all diets, there are some foods and dietary strategies that may help with managing bowel cancer.

Importance of a Balanced Diet

Eating a balanced diet is crucial for everyone, but it’s especially important for those with bowel cancer. A balanced diet can help you maintain a healthy weight, give you energy, and support your immune system.

Eating a combination of different foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats can help support your overall health.

Eating a Variety of Fruits and Vegetables

Increasing your intake of fruits and vegetables is important for a healthy diet. They’re rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, all of which are essential for good health.

Eating a variety of fruits and vegetables can help provide the nutrients your body needs to fight off diseases such as bowel cancer. One way to include more fruits and vegetables into your diet is to try to have at least one serving of each color group every day, such as red, orange, yellow, green, blue/purple, and white.

Limiting Red and Processed Meat

There is a growing body of evidence linking the consumption of red and processed meat with an increased risk of bowel cancer. Red meat includes beef, pork, and lamb, while processed meat includes hot dogs, salami, bacon, and sausage.

To reduce your risk, it’s recommended that you limit your intake of these meats and instead opt for lean protein sources such as chicken, fish, and plant-based protein.

Choosing Whole Grains

Choosing whole grains over refined grains is another way to support your overall health. Whole grains are packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, while refined grains lack these important nutrients.

Regular consumption of whole grains has also been linked to a reduced risk of developing bowel cancer. Some examples of whole grains include brown rice, whole wheat bread, quinoa, and oats.

Drinking Plenty of Fluids

Drinking plenty of fluids is vital for keeping hydrated and supporting your digestion. It’s recommended that you drink at least 8 cups of fluid per day to help support bowel function.

Water is the best choice, but you can also try herbal teas and broths for added flavor and hydration.

Avoiding Foods that Can Trigger Symptoms

While there are no specific foods that cause bowel cancer, certain types of food can trigger symptoms and make them worse. These foods can include spicy or fatty foods, alcohol, and high-fiber foods.

While it may not be possible to completely avoid these foods, reducing your intake can help you manage symptoms such as diarrhea, cramping, and bloating.

Managing Side Effects from Treatment

Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are common treatments for bowel cancer, but they can come with side effects such as nausea, poor appetite, and taste changes. These side effects can make it challenging to maintain a healthy diet.

Some tips for managing side effects include eating small, frequent meals throughout the day, trying new and flavorful foods to encourage eating, and avoiding strong-smelling or unappealing foods.

Taking Supplements

While it’s best to get nutrients from whole foods, some people may need to take supplements to help support their health during bowel cancer treatment.

For example, if you’re experiencing diarrhea, taking probiotics may help to restore the natural healthy gut bacteria. Talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian about what supplements may be right for you and how much to take.

Conclusion

Bowel cancer can be a challenging diagnosis, but there are steps you can take to help manage symptoms and maintain a healthy diet.

By eating a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein, you can help support your overall health and wellbeing.