Various reports indicate that colon cancer is the third most common type of cancer affecting people in the country. As of last year, the death rate due to the disease was over 50,000. This type of cancer mostly affects the elderly, and about 90% of colon cancer patients are above the age of 50.

Here are some helpful nutrition tips for colon cancer patients to combat the disease:

Eat a lot of fruits and vegetables
It is a no-brainer that fruits and vegetables are beneficial for overall health and well-being and a crucial part of a healthy diet. Along with that, the right combination of fruits and vegetables can help stun the growth of cancerous tumors in the colon. Vegetables like cabbage, broccoli, kale, and Brussels sprouts are good for colon cancer patients. Healthcare professionals state that with every 10 grams of fiber that a person consumes, they reduce their risk of getting colon cancer by 10 percent. Speaking of fruits, one should include pears, apples, raspberries, bananas, and oranges in their diet, as they are rich sources of antioxidants that play a very important role in controlling and delaying the effects of cell damage.

Include whole grains in the diet
Including whole grains in the daily diet is a very healthy practice, as they include necessary nutrients for both physical and mental well-being. For instance, legumes, brown rice, and such foods contain soluble fiber, which is known to dissolve in water and results in the formation of a gel in the gut. This gel helps improve bowel movement, which is one of the factors affected by colon cancer. Also, whole grains contain necessary minerals, vitamins, fiber, antioxidants, fatty acids, and phytochemicals that help boost colon health. Including brown rice in the diet at least once a week can considerably reduce an individual’s risk of developing colon polyps by a massive 40 percent. Consuming 30g of fiber on a daily basis is good for everyone, but it is a crucial nutrition tip for colon cancer patients.

Start having milk
Recent studies say that calcium in milk has been found to lower an individual’s risk of developing colon cancer. That said, one should consult a doctor before making major changes to their diet and including dairy to increase their calcium intake. This is because excessive intake of calcium may also have negative effects. Both men and women should make it a point to get an adequate amount of calcium depending on their age.

These nutrition tips are beneficial for colon cancer patients, but it’s always advisable to consult a doctor before introducing new foods to one’s diet. Also, one should avoid any foods that contain any allergens or those that they are intolerant to.