The colorectal cancer diet involves eliminating foods that raise cancer risk, while increasing foods that reduce it. Eat a low fat, high fiber diet and include lots of fruits and vegetables. Incorporate more soy into your meals and eat seafood instead of red meat. Center your diet around plant-based foods in place of animal-based ones. Use oils rich in omega-3 fatty acids and include foods that contain calcium and antioxidants.
It is important not only to eat a diet low in fat, but to eat the right kinds of fat as well. The colorectal cancer diet involves avoiding hydrogenated fats, and also oils with a large content of saturated fat such as palm, coconut, and cottonseed oils. Eat unsaturated fats and oils with a high monounsaturated fat content such as olive or canola oils. Incorporate salmon and tuna, which possess omega-3 fatty acids, into your meals. Use oils that contain a greater quantity of omega-3 than omega-6 fatty acids, such as pumpkin seed, flax seed, and extra virgin olive oils.
Research shows a correlation between a high fiber diet and a low colorectal cancer risk. Fiber speeds the transit of fecal material through the intestine, which reduces the exposure from carcinogens formed from decaying food. The amount of recommended fiber intake per day is at least .88 ounces (25 grams), which you may obtain from beans and whole grain products. Eliminate white flour products and eat brown rice instead of the regular variety.
Lots of raw fruits and vegetables are featured in the colorectal cancer diet. Studies indicate these foods contain compounds known as phytochemicals which are helpful in fighting cancer. Although all vegetables are beneficial, the most important ones are those in the cruciferous family, such as broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage. One of the healthiest dietary practices you can engage in is to make the main meal of the day a large salad. In the salad, include a variety of ingredients such as fresh spinach, tomatoes, and garbanzo beans, sprinkling with a little fresh minced garlic.
Another feature of the colorectal cancer diet is to stop eating red meat and replace it with seafood, such as salmon. Studies indicate that people who consume red meat daily had a higher cancer risk than those who eat it once a month. Research also suggests that eating processed meats has a high association with a greater bowel cancer risk. Not only is red meat carcinogenic in itself, but the preparation method of grilling under high heat releases additional carcinogens into it.