Have you made any New Year's Resolutions? Most of us make resolutions to eat healthy and exercise more. And, not only will these make you healthier, but they are also a great preventive measure against colon cancer!
Here are some tips to help you on your way:
- Eat more fiber - you can get fiber in a multitude of ways: whole-plant foods, beans, tofu, whole grain breads and pastas, or nuts and seeds. Check out this article by Dr. Fuhrman that discusses the benefits of beans.
- Cut calories if you are overweight. Try drinking seltzer water or flavored water, instead of sugary sodas or coffees. Please see your doctor before beginning any diet or calorie restriction.
- Limit your alcohol consumption. It is recommended that women have no more than one drink a day, men can have two. Also, keep an eye on your glass size - what you think might be one drink, could be more!
- Limit red and processed meat. Studies indicate processed meat could be linked to an increase chance of colon cancer.
- Add garlic to your foods. Recent studies indicate that garlic could inhibit colon tumor growth.
- Drink milk and get more calcium. Calcium has been shown to possibly decrease colon cancer risk.
- Add those fruits and vegetables. Not only are fruits and vegetables good for you, but they have been shown to reduce the risk of colon cancer.
- Exercise. You can walk. Dance with your kids. Ride your bike. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Just get moving!
No matter what other resolutions you make this year.... there is one you need to make and keep. Schedule an appointment with your doctor to discuss your colon cancer risk factors today.
For more information on colon cancer prevention and symptoms, visit the Susan Cohan Colon Cancer Foundation.
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