Colon cancer is the third most common cancer in the world, affecting millions of people every year. While the exact causes of colon cancer are not known, diet and lifestyle play a big role in its development.
Fortunately, there are several foods that can help prevent and even heal colon cancer. Here are some of the best foods you should consider including in your diet:.
Leafy Greens
Dark, leafy greens are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help heal the colon. They are high in fiber, which helps to keep the digestive system moving and reduces the risk of colon cancer.
Spinach, kale, collard greens, and Swiss chard are particularly beneficial for colon health.
Cruciferous Vegetables
Broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts are all cruciferous vegetables that help prevent colon cancer. They contain sulforaphane, which has been shown to stimulate the body’s natural defenses against cancer cells.
The fiber in these vegetables also helps to prevent colon cancer by keeping the colon walls free of toxins and waste.
Berries
Blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, and blackberries are high in antioxidants, which protect the body against damage from free radicals. They also contain ellagic acid, which has been shown to help prevent cancer cells from reproducing.
Berries are also high in fiber, which helps to keep the digestive system moving and reduces the risk of colon cancer.
Garlic and Onions
Garlic and onions contain sulfur compounds that have been shown to reduce the risk of colon cancer. These compounds stimulate the body’s natural defenses against cancer and help to reduce inflammation in the colon.
They also contain quercetin, a powerful antioxidant that helps to protect the body against damage from free radicals.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a spice that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments. It contains curcumin, a compound that has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.
Curcumin can help to prevent the growth of cancer cells and reduce inflammation in the colon.
Whole Grains
Whole grains, such as brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat, are high in fiber, which helps to keep the digestive system moving and reduces the risk of colon cancer.
They also contain nutrients, such as selenium and magnesium, that have been shown to help prevent colon cancer.
Legumes
Legumes, such as beans, lentils, and peas, are high in fiber and protein, which makes them an excellent addition to any diet. They also contain folate and other nutrients that have been shown to help prevent colon cancer.
The fiber in legumes also helps to keep the digestive system moving and reduces the risk of colon cancer.
Fatty Fish
Fatty fish, such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines, are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. They also contain vitamin D, which may help to prevent colon cancer.
Eating fatty fish on a regular basis can help to reduce the risk of colon cancer.
Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seeds, such as almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and flaxseeds, are high in fiber and healthy fats, which makes them an excellent addition to any diet. They also contain vitamin E, which has been shown to help prevent colon cancer.
The fiber in nuts and seeds also helps to keep the digestive system moving and reduces the risk of colon cancer.
Coffee
Coffee contains compounds that have been shown to reduce the risk of colon cancer. The caffeine in coffee helps to stimulate the body’s natural defenses against cancer cells and reduce inflammation in the colon.
Drinking coffee on a regular basis, in moderation, can help to reduce the risk of colon cancer.