Preventing Cancer of the Colon
by Dr. April Gilliom, Naturopathic Doctor and Health Education Lifestyle Coach
It’s common for there to be dread about the colonoscopy recommended at age 45, but do not fear! It is a great tool for preventing colon cancer. The Healthy Living Team encourages you to talk with your health care team and explore the variety of colon cancer screening and prevention options to help keep you safe. Colon cancer is a common cause of cancer-related death, and a cancer highly influenced by lifestyle.
Prevention is Key and at Your Fingertips
- Ask your doctor about screening options at age 45. This may include a stool test, blood-draw test (new option), or visual test (colonoscopy).
- Know your body and family history. Pay attention to your bowel movements. If there are unexpected and lingering changes in the shape and color, share this information with your healthcare provider. Testing may be needed earlier than age 45.
- Limit alcohol and tobacco use.
- Live an active lifestyle, enjoying movement throughout the day.
- Eat a diet rich in beans, fish, vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. Colon cancer is rare in people who eat a high-fiber, low-fat diet.
- Know that a diet including frequent intake of red meat and especially processed meats/foods significantly raises colon cancer risk
A Few Statistics
- A diagnosis of type 2 diabetes is associated with a 25% increased risk of colon cancer.
- Relative risk of colon cancer increases by 18% with one hotdog serving a day.
- A diet rich in dark leafy greens (nettles, dandelion greens, kale, spinach, chard, broccoli sprouts, etc.) and beans can reduce colon cancer risk by 10% or more.
More info: https://preventcancer.org/preventable-cancer/colorectal-cancer/
Design specific ways to brush up on nutrition for health by meeting with one of our Registered Dietitians or our Naturopathic Physician. All of the Healthy Living Team Cooking Classes teach ways of eating that reduce cancer risk.
Please reach out to our Lifestyle Coaches for ways to learn more about the power of food as medicine. (541) 672-8533, option #2
