Colon cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the large intestine (colon). According to the American Cancer Society, it is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in both men and women.

While there is no guaranteed way to prevent colon cancer, there are a number of lifestyle changes you can make to reduce your risk. Follow these tips to reduce your risk of colon cancer:.

Eat a Healthy Diet

Eating a healthy diet is important in reducing your risk of colon cancer. Include plenty of fruits and vegetables in your diet as they are high in fiber and essential nutrients.

A diet that is high in processed foods and red meat may increase your risk of colon cancer. You may want to consider replacing red meat with lean protein sources such as fish, chicken, and beans.

Exercise Regularly

Regular exercise can help reduce your risk of colon cancer. Aim to exercise for at least 30 minutes, five days a week. This could include activities such as brisk walking, jogging, swimming, or biking.

Exercise can also help you maintain a healthy weight which is also important in reducing your risk of colon cancer.

Try to Quit Smoking

Smoking has been linked to a number of health problems including colon cancer. If you are a smoker, consider quitting to reduce your risk.

Speak to your doctor about quitting smoking and the different options available to you such as nicotine replacements and other medications.

Limit Alcohol Consumption

Limiting your alcohol consumption can also reduce your risk of colon cancer. If you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation. Limit your intake to no more than one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men.

Get Regular Screenings

Getting regular colon cancer screenings is important as it can help detect the disease early when it is most treatable.

Speak to your doctor about when to start getting screened and how frequently you should get screened based on your age, family history, and other individual factors.

Know Your Family History

If you have a family history of colon cancer, you may be at a higher risk of developing the disease. Speak to your doctor about your family history and what steps you can take to reduce your risk.

Your doctor may recommend that you start getting screened at an earlier age or more frequently than the general population.

Consider Taking Aspirin

Some studies have suggested that taking aspirin may reduce the risk of colon cancer. However, it is still unclear how much aspirin should be taken and for how long. Speak to your doctor about whether taking aspirin is appropriate for you.

Reduce Stress

Reducing stress in your life can also help reduce your risk of colon cancer. Chronic stress has been linked to a number of health problems, including cancer.

Find ways to reduce stress in your life such as through exercise, relaxation techniques, and social support systems.

Avoid Exposure to Toxins

Avoid exposure to toxins such as chemicals and radiation as they may increase your risk of colon cancer. Speak to your employer if you are aware of any potential exposure to toxins in your workplace and take steps to protect yourself.

Conclusion

Colon cancer is a serious disease, but by making a few lifestyle changes, you can significantly reduce your risk.

Eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, getting regular screenings, knowing your family history, taking aspirin (if appropriate), reducing stress, and avoiding exposure to toxins are all important steps you can take to reduce your risk of colon cancer. Speak to your doctor about what steps are appropriate for you based on your individual risk factors.