6 Diet Tips for Colon Cancer Patients
Colon cancer is a type of cancer that develops on the large intestine or the rectum. The condition mostly affects older adults, and family history can also elevate one’s risk of developing this disease. Apart from that, chronic ulcerative colitis and colon polyps can also lead to the condition. Having said that, the disease can be managed by making a few dietary changes and adopting a healthy lifestyle. Here are a few nutrition tips for colon cancer patients:
- Eat berries : A diet for colon cancer patients should include different kinds of berries like strawberries and black raspberries. These fruits contain antioxidants and phytonutrients, which protect the cells from free radical damage. Besides, the anthocyanin in black raspberries assists in slowing the growth of the tumor cells.
- Include fresh fruits and vegetables : A helpful nutrition tip for colon cancer patients is to add plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables to their regular diet. These foods provide necessary vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants to the body and aid it in fighting colon cancer. Also, vegetables like broccoli that are high in sulforaphane help lower the risk of the disease and help the enzymes in the body to fight the disease.
- Drink coffee: The consumption of coffee has been linked to lower death rates in colon cancer patients. This is because coffee has anti-inflammatory, anti-carcinogenic, and insulin-sensitizing properties that aid in slowing the growth of malignant cells.
- Include high-protein foods in meals : The list of nutrition tips for colon cancer patients also lays out a suggestion to up the consumption of protein-rich foods like chicken, eggs, low-fat dairy, beans, and soy. Protein helps the damaged cells and tissues of the body heal, which increases one’s chance of recovery.
- Choose whole grains : Carbohydrates and fiber are important nutrients that help maintain the energy level of the body. These nutrients are present in abundance in whole grains like oatmeal, brown rice, and buckwheat, so colon cancer patients should include them in their regular diet.
- Munch on nuts : Nuts help one recover from the disease and also prevent flare-ups because they contain various kinds of protein, fiber, healthy fats, antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins. These nutrients work toward lowering DNA damage, improving immune response, and fighting inflammation in the body. Also, nuts have anti-carcinogenic properties that prevent the multiplication of tumor cells.
These nutrition tips for colon cancer patients can help combat the disease and prevent its advancement if followed properly. That said, one should cut down on alcohol consumption and quit smoking along with following these dietary tips. It’s also advisable to seek professional help when making changes to one’s diet.