Food for thought
Colorectal cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United States, and cases continue to rise, especially among younger adults. However, the good news is that your diet can play a powerful role in reducing your risk.
Jessica Flynn, MS, RD, LD, an oncology dietitian at Adena Cancer Center, shares her expertise on how nutrition affects colorectal cancer risk and what you can do to protect yourself.
“Healthy eating doesn’t mean giving up everything you love,” Flynn explains. “Small, sustainable changes, like swapping in high-fiber snacks or adding more vegetables to your meals, can significantly benefit your digestive health. It’s not about dieting, it’s about improving your health, one meal at a time.”
Why colorectal cancer should be on your radar
Most people don’t think about their colon until something goes wrong. However, with cases rising, particularly in adults under 50, it’s important to be aware.
“There’s strong scientific evidence that healthy dietary habits, physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight can greatly help reduce your risk of colorectal cancer,” Flynn says.
In fact, research shows that up to 50% of colorectal cancer cases could be prevented through lifestyle changes like diet and exercise. That means what’s on your plate could be one of your best defenses against this disease.
Your colon’s best friend: fiber
If there’s one dietary change you make today, eat more fiber.
“Eating high-fiber foods like whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, beans, and lentils helps reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer,” Flynn explains. “Most people don’t realize how easy it is to increase fiber; sometimes it’s as simple as swapping white bread for whole grain or adding beans to your soup.”
Research suggests that every 10g increase in dietary fiber is linked to a seven percent lower risk of developing colorectal cancer.
Fiber works in several ways to support colorectal health:
It helps move waste through the digestive system, reducing exposure to harmful substances.
It feeds good gut bacteria, which may lower inflammation and cancer risk.
It binds to toxins in the colon, helping to remove them from the body.
Screenings are the most powerful prevention tool
While a fiber-rich diet is important, it’s only part of the equation. Regular colorectal cancer screenings are essential for early detection and prevention.
“A colon cancer screening, or a colonoscopy, is still the gold standard for catching the disease early,” Flynn says. “Even if you eat the healthiest diet in the world, screenings are non-negotiable; they save lives, because early detection can have a huge impact on outcomes.”
If you’re 45+ or have risk factors, like family history of certain cancers or inflammatory bowel conditions, don’t wai,t schedule your colorectal cancer screening today.
Schedule your colonoscopy today
Put prevention on your calendar. Schedule your colonoscopy today at adena.org/colonoscopy or call 740-779-4550.