Most of us still hesitate to talk about subjects regarding anything that takes place in the bathroom. While we may have been raised to think that these subjects are seen as “inappropriate” or “rude”, could this be affecting our health negatively? It’s quite possible.
While we know that various types of cancers, such as breast or lung cancer is very dangerous, many still don’t know the serious risks regarding colorectal cancer. In fact, the main reason it’s not often spoken about is because anything in reference to the colon is often seen as immature or “gross”. Did you know that the National Cancer Institute reports that it’s actually the fourth most common cancer in both genders?
Just like most cancers, some people have genetics that play a part into them being placed at a greater risk for developing colon cancer, as well as age, family history, ulcerative colitis, and/or Crohn’s disease. You’re also placed at a higher risk if you don’t eat or exercise properly, or put yourself in high-risk situations with substances like cigarettes. In fact, extensive research has been performed to show that just by simply changing your diet for the better, that you can prevent this horrid disease. We all know that we should eat our fruits and vegetables, but do we really eat enough? While eating a colorful array of fruits and veggies is good for preventing many a disease, studies have shown that some are more efficient than others at preventing colon cancer.
Here are some of the most effective foods that you should be adding to your diet if you want optimal colon health:
1.Cruciferous Vegetables: These can help eliminate dietary carcinogens often found in processed meats and other foods, that can lead to colorectal cancer.
2.Garlic, Leeks, and Onions: While they may not be everyone’s favorites, they have powerful antibacterial properties which can stop cancer formation before it starts, and destroy already-existing cancer cells.
3.Turmeric: Curcumin is an extraordinary ingredient that helps make up turmeric, and gives it its famous yellow color. More importantly, it can decrease cancer cell production.
4.Berries (Mostly Blackberries): You may already know this one as an antioxidant powerhouse.
5.Green Beans: Your mom always told you to eat these at dinner for a reason. They’re packed with vitamin C and beta-carotene, aiding them in destroying free radicals.
6.Olives: Olives are kind of a “love them or hate them” type of food, but regardless of your stance on them, they can completely obliterate malignant cancer cell proliferation because of the acids they contain.
7.Flax: This one is not like the others, as it’s not a veggie or a fruit, but it has been proven to help slow the growth of cancer cells in the colon.
While consuming these foods and leading an overall healthy lifestyle is great, you should always get checked for colon cancer, particularly after you hit 40 years of age. This is so if you actually are found to have polyps, they can be removed before becoming cancerous, and your risk of developing the cancer can be reduced almost completely.
