{"id":13038,"date":"2024-03-27T14:57:45","date_gmt":"2024-03-27T14:57:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blogs.cooperhealth.org\/ehealth\/?p=13038"},"modified":"2024-03-27T16:08:42","modified_gmt":"2024-03-27T16:08:42","slug":"dos-and-donts-to-combat-colon-cancer-risk","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blogs.cooperhealth.org\/ehealth\/2024\/03\/27\/dos-and-donts-to-combat-colon-cancer-risk\/","title":{"rendered":"Do\u2019s and Don\u2019ts to Combat Colon Cancer Risk"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"Do\u2019s<\/p>\n

It may not be the most glamorous topic, but let\u2019s talk about your behind-the-scenes hero: your colon. March is Colon Cancer Awareness Month, and it\u2019s a great time to learn how you can keep this essential organ healthy \u2013 and reduce your risk of colon cancer.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Para leer en Espa\u00f1ol, por favor haga clic aqu\u00ed<\/a><\/p>\n

\u201cThe colon is a vital part of the digestive system,\u201d says <\/span>Steven J. McClane, MD, FACS, FASCRS<\/span><\/a>, Head, Division of Colorectal Surgery<\/a> at\u202fCooper University Health Care<\/a>, and Co-Director, Gastrointestinal Cancer Program<\/a> at MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper<\/a>. \u201cHealthy habits, such as exercising regularly, avoiding tobacco products, and eating a healthy diet, are all preventative measures that will reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer \u2013 and improve your overall gut health.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

The Obesity-Cancer Connection<\/h3>\n

Research shows there is consistent evidence that obesity is associated with an many other cancers, including colon cancer A diet packed with fruits, vegetables, and whole grains will go a long way toward maintaining a healthy weight and can help decrease your risk of colorectal cancer.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Many people look to cutting out fats to manage their weight, but not all fats are the same. \u00a0\u201cOver the years, studies have shown that not all fats are bad,\u201d Dr. McClane says. \u201cAvoiding trans fats and choosing unsaturated fats, such as avocado, extra virgin olive oil, nuts, and seeds, is key. Trans fats are found in most processed foods, including packaged snacks, crackers, cakes, some frozen entrees, and more. Be sure to read nutrition labels to check for these types of fats and avoid them.\u201d<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

While focusing eating only healthy fats is important, there\u2019s more to building a gut-healthy diet.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

Foods to Avoid for a Healthy Colon<\/h3>\n

To maintain a healthy colon, it\u2019s important to limit or avoid certain foods that may negatively affect digestive health and contribute to obesity. Here are some foods to avoid for a healthier colon.<\/span>\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n