Wellness Club — Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month
Abingdon, VA. -
Friday, Mar 1, 2024.
Written by: Kirby Stanton, RDN, LDN Food City Dietitian
March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in both men and women in the United States. While overall rates of people being diagnosed with colorectal cancer have decreased, young people are developing colorectal cancer at higher rates than ever before. Because of this the American Cancer Society recommends screening earlier and decreased recommend screening age from 50 to 45 years old.
Outside of routine screenings nutrition plays a critical role in prevention and treatment. Some cancer research studies have found that people who eat right, get regular physical activity, maintain a healthy weight, and limit alcohol consumption can reduce the odds of colorectal disease by more than a third.
A nutritious diet can improve your gut health, which is a main contributor to colon and rectal health. Try these tips for gut support:
Increase dietary fiber intake
When working to increase fiber intake, think about adding more plants to your plate. This includes fruits, vegetables, grains, beans, peas, and lentils all which help add fiber to the diet. These foods also provide beneficial nutrients like vitamin B, C and E. Studies have found that fiber can ferment in the colon, which helps feed beneficial bacteria. This is thought to play a crucial role in preventing diseases of the colon.
Shop these fiber rich picks:
Full Circle Market - Red Lentils Penne
Eat more essential nutrients
Fruits and vegetables contain various components with anti- cancer potential including fiber, antioxidants, B vitamins, and glucosinolates, found primarily in cruciferous vegetables. Enjoy a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables to get the greatest benefit. Aim to eat a minimum of five servings of whole fruits and vegetables daily to promote gut health.
Shop these nutrient rich picks:
Birds Eye – Frozen Broccoli & Cauliflower
Eating more dairy
According to the American Institute for Cancer Research, there is strong evidence that the consumption of dairy can be protective against colorectal cancer. Several nutrients in dairy products are believed to offer a protective effect, including calcium and vitamin D. The USDA recommends including three servings of dairy daily. Generally, one cup of milk, yogurt, or one to 1 ½ ounces of cheese is considered one serving of dairy.
Shop these delectable dairy picks:
Food Club - Light Mozzarella String Cheese
Food Club - Low Fat Ricotta Cheese
Focus on preventative measures by working with your health care team, including your Food City Pharmacists. Not only are your pharmacists the medication and treatment experts, but they also have a wealth of knowledge about gut health. Plan to stop by the pharmacy during the month of March and talk with your Food City Pharmacists about gut health.
For more information about colorectal cancer visit https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/colon-rectal-cancer.html
