It's no secret that certain foods have powerful health effects. The right diet can reduce the risks of many forms of cancer. For colorectal cancer, or cancer of the colon or rectum, a diet that includes plenty of raw fruits and vegetables as well as fiber may play a role in prevention and treatment. However, always consult a physician before making treatment decisions.
Key Facts
According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in American men and women. According to the ACS, about 150,000 cases of colorectal cancer, most in people over 50, are diagnosed every year in the United States. Nearly 50,000 people die of the cancer every year. However, the ACS states that there are 1 million survivors and colorectal cancer is highly preventable and treatable if caught early.
Prevention
Most colorectal cancers begin as benign polyps that grow on the inner lining of the colon or rectum, and which may take 10 to 15 years to become cancerous. With early detection, the ACS says polyps can be removed and further growth monitored. Screening for people without risk factors should begin at age 50. Others with genetic or other risk factors should consult their physician. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, diet, exercise and other lifestyle factors can reduce the chances of developing colorectal cancer by 70 percent for some people.
Recommendations
According to the ACS, a diet high in vegetables and fruits is associated with lower risk of colon cancer, while eating too much processed food and/or red meats is linked to a higher risk. The ACS recommends eating at least five servings of fruits and vegetables every day. A diet of whole grains is also advised. Excessive alcohol use may increase the risk of colorectal cancer. Multi-vitamins with folates and folic acid as well as calcium and magnesium may also decrease risks, but the ACS cautions that studies are inconclusive.
Effects
According to renowned pediatrician William Sears, a diet low in fat also lowers the risk of colorectal cancer. One reason is that fat stimulates production of bile, which may stagnate in the large intestine where it is converted into a carcinogen called apcholic acid. Sears says fiber is important because it pushes carcinogens through the intestines faster and keeps them away from the intestinal wall by binding them. Fiber also encourages healthy bacteria to grow in the intestines, while also absorbing bile acids that ultimately result in the production of cancerous fecapentanes. According to Sears, fruits and vegetables are important in part because they decrease the desire for fatty foods and also because they contain cancer-fighting phytochemicals.
Considerations
While diet may play a strong role in treatment and prevention of colorectal cancers, never rely on a certain food or supplement as a cure or sure-fire prevention. Each case should be treated separately and always under a physician's guidance. Always tell your physician about any diet or other alternative treatments you are using. Routine screenings are vital for early detection and treatment.
