Bowel cancer, more commonly known as colon cancer or colorectal cancer, is a cancer affecting the large intestines. Most of the time, this form of cancer begins with a benign polyp along the lining of the colon that later develops into cancerous tissue. But as with almost any form of cancer, certain lifestyle changes can help reduce the risk of developing bowel cancer
Diet
Of all the things you can do to reduce your chances of developing bowel cancer, diet is one of the more effective, so limit the amount of saturated fat, namely from animal sources, while increasing your daily intake of fruits, vegetable and whole grains.
Kale, spinach, green lettuce, broccoli, legumes, carrots, potatoes, bananas and whole grains are all great sources of both vitamin B-6 and B-9, which play an important role in the prevention of colon cancer. Magnesium and calcium are also great minerals to help reduce your risk. Look for these nutrients in low-fat dairy, tofu, tempeh, legumes, peas, shrimp and green leafy vegetables,such as spinach and kale. Even orange juice is believed to have cancer-preventative qualities.
Though these specific nutrients and the foods that contain them are by far the most beneficial, just try to incorporate a wide array of produce in your diet, at least five servings a day.
Exercise
To help support the effects of a healthier, well-balanced diet, implement some exercise into your daily routine. Thirty minutes of a low-impact activity, such as biking, walking or swimming, can go a long way to reducing your chances of developing this disease. If you're already in shape, consider "upping" your athletic pursuits to more strenuous fare, such as jogging, lifting or aerobics. Tennis, racquetball and basketball are other great sports to include in your fitness regimen.
Bad Habits
Another method of reducing your chances of bowel cancer is eliminating any bad habits you currently subscribe to, namely smoking and drinking. By getting involved with a smoking cessation program as well as limiting your alcohol intake, you can often lessen the risk of developing not just colon cancer, but other cancers as well.
Medications
There is also some evidence to support the use of certain medications to help reduce your chances of colon cancer. Aspirin is one of the most common, but other medications such as NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) and COX-2 inhibitors are also believed to work in this fashion. But before using any of these substances, talk to your doctor.
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