Colorectal cancers are the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths. You don’t want to be a part of that statistics, especially with a lot in your hands that can help lower colon cancer risks. While some considerations like genetics and age are not within your control, there is a lot you can do to beat cancer. This starts with early and regular screening. Early colon cancer San Antonio screening can help spot developing problems and put in place measures to avoid further growth. Colon cancer can be managed with promising recovery chances in the localized stage.
Prevention is the key to a healthy, happier, and longer life. Surprisingly, colon cancer prevention measures are straightforward and apply to most, if not all, your health needs. The top colon cancer prevention tips include:
Nutrition
Healthy nutrition keeps your body nourished. As you work to lower colon cancer risks, knowing what to consume or avoid is the trick. The top consideration is Vitamin D and calcium, nutrients that help protect your body from colon cancer. Eggs, fortified dairy products, and fatty fish are great Vitamin D sources. Low-fat dairy, beans, nuts, greens, and plant-based milk are good for your calcium needs.
As you tailor a nutrition regimen for colon cancer prevention, include lots of vegetables, whole grains, and fruits. Also, limit consumption of red and processed meats. Items like lamb, pork, beef, and hot dogs, among others, are linked to increased colorectal cancer risks. This emphasizes the need to lean more into plant-based food.
Weight
You know the many risks associated with excessive weight. Nonetheless, you might not know that weight gain and obesity are linked to many cancers. This includes colorectal, uterine, breast, esophageal, kidney, and pancreatic cancers. Shedding a few pounds works wonders as you strive to lower significant health risks. You also enjoy bonuses of improved looks and confidence levels.
Exercise
Physical activity is mentioned whenever you are looking for ways to improve your overall health and wellness. Exercise can alter the metabolism of bile acids. This lowers the exposure of the gastrointestinal tract to possible carcinogens. Exercising also reduces the time food takes to travel through the digestive system. This further decreases exposure to potential carcinogens, lowering the chances of colon cancer. You stand to benefit a lot from physical activities beyond colon cancer prevention. This includes improving your moods, energy levels, and heart health, to mention a few.
Habits
Smoking is a no-brainer; it can cause cancer in almost any body part, including the mouth, kidney, stomach, rectum, and colon. Alcohol consumption is also a lifestyle habit you may have to revise to lower colon cancer risks. Excessive drinking, especially if you also use tobacco, skyrockets the risk of developing cancer. If you must, consider moderate drinking (one drink and two per day for women and men, respectively).
Screening
Colon cancer screening is the most effective measure as you look for ways to protect yourself. Screening makes it easier to catch cancer early when it is most treatable. The doctor can find abnormal growths (polyps) and manage them before spreading or turning into cancer. If your family has a history of colon cancer or you are exposed to other significant risk factors, start the screenings early and do it regularly. If not, beginning at 45 years is recommended.
With the varying screening options available, you can work with your doctor and find an option best suited to your needs and preferences. Don’t give cancer a chance. Talk to Digestive & Liver Disease Center of San Antonio PLLC professionals, adopt a regular screening schedule, and get more help needed to lower colon cancer risks.
