Colorectal cancer is a cancer of the colon and rectum. Colorectal cancer is highly preventable or even curable when detected at an early stage, so screening is important. Some studies have shown that prevention might include maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including both diet and exercise.
General Nutrition
Diets that are high in fruits and vegetables have been linked to a decreased risk for colorectal cancer. Eating at least five of more servings of a variety of fruits and vegetables daily is recommended. Limiting alcohol consumption and reducing intake of high-fat or fried foods, especially red meats, and choosing whole grains over refined grains also might reduce risk.
Vitamins
Some studies have shown that vitamin D (either obtained from the sun of from a multivitamin) can lower colorectal cancer risk; others have shown that increasing calcium in the diet also might reduce risk, although it is recommended that men not consume more than 1,500 mg a day because of the possible increased risk of prostate cancer. Some early studies also suggest that taking a daily multivitamin with folate or folic acid also might lower colorectal cancer risk when taken for many years. Overall, a daily multivitamin containing vitamins A, C, E, B-complex, magnesium, calcium, zinc and selenium might help reduce risk of colorectal cancer.
Supplements
Some supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids might reduce the risk of cancer. A few preliminary studies suggest that omega -3 fatty acids found in fish oils help reduce the growth rate of colon caner cells, although further research is needed. Omega-3 fatty acids can also be obtained from the diet: They are present in cold-water fish such as salmon and halibut.
Herbs
Some herbs have been shown to strengthen the body's system, although they might interact with other drugs and treatments and should be discussed with a doctor before administration. A standardized green tea extract of 250-500 mg a day can help boost the immune system, although further research is needed to measure how this is actually accomplished. Reishi mushroom extract of 150-300 mg daily also might have cancer-fighting properties. Maitake mushroom standard extract of 600 mg a day might help the body fight cancer, but more research is needed. Turmeric extract of 300 mg three times a day has been shown to kill cancer cells in test tubes, but it is uncertain whether it has the same effects in humans and further studies are needed.
Low-Calorie Diet
There might be a link between risk of developing colorectal cancer and obesity, so an overall low-calorie diet and physical activity might be beneficial in prevention. The American Cancer Society recommends at least 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous activity at least five days a week and maintaining a healthy weight.
