Colon cancer is one of the cancers with a rapidly increasing number of new patients in South Korea. The rise of this previously less noticeable cancer type is closely related to dietary habits. The food we eat can either prevent or promote the occurrence of colon cancer, so maintaining a proper diet can help manage it. In this article, let's explore the foods that are good and bad for preventing colon cancer.
Good Foods
- Legumes: Legumes are helpful in preventing colon cancer. Isoflavones prevent cancer cell proliferation and inhibit fatty acid synthesis, suppressing colon cancer. It is recommended to consume at least 105g of legumes daily.
- Vegetables and Fruits: Vegetables and fruits are rich in fiber and various nutrients, making them effective in preventing colon cancer. It is especially beneficial to consume a variety of 5-colored foods. Each colored food contains various antioxidants that help maintain intestinal health.
- Sweet Potatoes and Pumpkins: Yellow foods rich in beta-carotene reduce cell damage and inflammation, enhancing immunity.
- Blueberries: Purple foods rich in anthocyanins have excellent anti-cancer and antioxidant effects.
- Garlic and Onions: White foods rich in nutrients that increase beneficial bacteria in the intestines help maintain intestinal health.
Bad Foods
- Red Meat: Red meat can increase the risk of colon cancer as it produces carcinogens during digestion.
- Processed Meat: Processed meats like ham and sausages contain harmful substances such as nitrosamines, increasing the risk of colon cancer.
- Excessive Alcohol Consumption: Binge drinking can increase the risk of colon cancer by about 60%. Especially, aldehydes produced during alcohol metabolism can induce colon cancer.
- High-Fat Foods: Excessive consumption of high-fat foods such as beef and pork can increase the risk of colon cancer.
- Processed Foods: Processed foods often contain excessive saturated fats, salt, sugar, etc., which can increase the risk of colon cancer.
Colon cancer is one of the diseases that can be prevented through proper dietary habits. Consuming a variety of foods such as legumes, vegetables, and fruits while avoiding high-fat foods, processed meats, and excessive alcohol consumption is crucial. By consistently maintaining these dietary habits, the risk of colon cancer can be reduced. Let's strive to have healthy eating habits and live a healthy life together.
