Home - health - 10 Superfoods That Can Help Manage Colon Cancer
10 superfoods that can help manage colon cancer

10 superfoods that can help manage colon cancer

Colon cancer refers to cancerous polyps developing in the rectum or colon in the lower part of the digestive tract. Individuals with colon cancer may experience abdominal pain, changes in their bowel movement patterns, diarrhea or constipation, and the feeling of incomplete bowel evacuation. Surgery, radiofrequency ablation, and chemotherapy are among the commonly prescribed treatment options for this condition. Further, incorporating certain foods into one’s meal plan can help with the healing process.

Superfoods to manage colon cancer

Beans
Beans are rich in flavonoids, compounds with several antioxidant properties that prevent colon cancer from spreading. They are also packed with fiber and vitamins B and E and can help replenish the body with essential nutrients. It helps to include different types of beans, including black beans, soybeans, kidney beans, lentils, peas, and pinto beans, in one’s meals while healing from cancer.

Fatty fish
Fatty or oily fish varieties, including salmon, swordfish, tuna, and mackerel, are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids associated with anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids inhibit cancer progression and increase survival chances. Moreover, they contain high levels of vitamin D, which have also been shown to reduce mortality rates among patients.

Broccoli
Broccoli is a great source of sulforaphane, a phytochemical associated with cancer-fighting properties. In general, including broccoli and cruciferous vegetables like cauliflower, kale, bok choy, and collards in one’s meal plan can be highly beneficial to affected people.

Brown rice
Studies have shown that having brown rice can help reduce the formation of polyps and inflammation associated with colorectal cancer. Further, brown rice is a healthier substitute for polished white rice, as it contains higher levels of fiber and manganese, selenium, and other vital nutrients. It can also help with the movement of stools among affected patients.

Pomegranate
Pomegranate entails an anti-carcinogenic effect, limiting tumor growth and slowing colon cancer progression. Moreover, fresh pomegranate juice is a rich source of electrolytes, with a cup of pomegranate juice accounting for 18% of the total daily magnesium requirement. Electrolytes are essential for those undergoing chemotherapy and other intensive interventions, which typically cause fluctuations in the body’s potassium, sodium, calcium, and other elements. Therefore, pomegranate should be a significant part of one’s meal plan while undergoing treatment for the condition.

Carrots
Carrots are packed with carotenoids (beta-carotene), which can help curb the growth of cancer cells. This non-starchy root vegetable is also rich in other phytonutrients, which aid in fighting colon cancer. One may include carrots in various interesting ways, including in salads, soups, smoothies, and stir-fries.

Lean meats
Experts typically advise against the intake of red meat while recovering from colorectal cancer, as it is difficult to digest and increases one’s risk of diabetes, cholesterol, and other lifestyle diseases. However, while undergoing treatment for colon cancer, patients require essential proteins to gain energy. Lean meats are excellent protein sources that are easier to digest than red meat. Thus, affected patients should include lean meat sources like chicken, turkey breast, and venison in one’s meals.

Dairy
Individuals who are not lactose intolerant can benefit from having dairy products while healing from colon cancer. Dairy products are rich in calcium and can help reduce colon polyps. Moreover, dairy sources like yogurt and Greek yogurt are great probiotic sources, which can soothe the stomach and aid digestion.

Olive oil
Olive oil is packed with healthy compounds such as monounsaturated fats, phenols, phytosterols, and squalene, which can help with anti-inflammation and provide the body with much-needed energy while recovering from colon cancer. Further, it is a good alternative to salted butter and refined oils.

Rolled oats
Rolled oats are rich in phytochemicals, fiber, vitamins, and minerals and can help with digestion. It is classified as a soluble fiber source, essential to maintain good colon health. Rolled oats make for a wholesome breakfast option; they can be cooked with regular milk or lactose-free milk and topped with some fruits or nuts for a nutritional boost.

Lifestyle tips for patients with colon cancer

  • Avoid processed foods
    Processed foods contain high levels of saturated fats and refined flour and are difficult for the body to digest. These foods can worsen the symptoms and bowel problems. Thus, affected individuals should stay away from processed foods, replacing them with healthy complex carbohydrate and fat sources.
  • Stay hydrated
    Water is crucial for digestion and proper bowel movements; moreover, it helps flush out toxins from the body and reduce the side effects of chemotherapy and other cancer treatments. Experts recommend having approximately five glasses of water per day in addition to healthy beverages, such as fresh fruit juices, smoothies, and soups.
  • Exercise regularly
    While movement may be restricted among some affected patients, avoiding a sedentary lifestyle can increase one’s chances of survival while healing from this condition. Moderate-intensity cardio activities like walking, engaging in some household activities, and gardening can help manage cancer symptoms.
  • Avoid sugary foods
    Foods high in added sugars can take away from the nutritional value of other foods and increase one’s risk for lifestyle diseases like diabetes and cholesterol, impeding recovery from colon cancer. It is best to avoid sugary items like baked foods and soft drinks, replacing them with natural sugar sources such as fruits and fruit juices.

Recovery from colon cancer typically involves intensive treatments, such as chemotherapy and surgical interventions, which have several side effects and can induce weakness. Hence, nutrition plays a vital role in boosting one’s immunity and aiding digestion during this time. Following healthy food and lifestyle practices alongside treatment can go a long way in facilitating recovery from this condition.

Latest Articles

5 smart ways of using tablet computers
Tablets

5 smart ways of using tablet computers

You see tablet computers everywhere. More and more people are now moving toward tablets in offices, coffee shops, homes, and even schools. This is because they offer more power and uses than a smartphone and better portability than a desktop or even a laptop. Tablets have many more uses than simply checking your emails or browsing social media. Here are some interesting ways to find more uses for your tablet computer: Second screen Some people like to work on two screens at a time due to the demand of their work. This also enhances productivity and cuts down on time. It is easy to mirror your Android to another Android or even a computer. To use your tablet as an extended display, you need to install an application on your computer and connect the tablet to it using a USB cable or Wi-Fi. Some of the best app options to do this include Spacedesk, Google Remote Desktop, iDisplay, Duet Display, etc. As a remote to control electronics Tablet computers can be easily used to control your electronics. A tablet is larger than a remote and much easier to find and operate with better features. You can control your PC and television with it. It can also dim your home lights, open your garage door, and operate your smart fridge and washing machine. For instance, if you have a Sony Smart TV, you can use the TV Sideview application for your Apple and Android systems. E-Reader If you are an avid reader and have an old tablet, you don’t need to purchase a new e-reader. Your tablet can easily be used as an e-reader to browse your favorite books, magazines, comic strips, and even news applications. Since tablet screens have more glare, we suggest getting an anti-glare film on the screen.
Ignore these 8 foods when diagnosed with hyperkalemia
health

Ignore these 8 foods when diagnosed with hyperkalemia

Potassium is an essential nutrient that allows your body to function optimally. A meal plan rich in potassium allows proper nerve function and regulates your heartbeat. However, certain conditions such as kidney diseases and consuming food rich in potassium excessively may increase its levels in your bloodstream leading to a condition known as hyperkalemia . Let’s look at foods you should limit to keep your potassium within normal levels. Bananas The first food that comes to mind when people think of potassium sources is bananas. One medium-sized banana contains almost 422 mg of potassium. Though it would take a lot of bananas to cause an overdose of potassium, if you are also eating other foods rich in potassium, it will lead to excessive potassium levels in your blood, which in turn, will trigger hyperkalemia . Tomato Sauce and Paste Raw tomatoes contain a decent amount of potassium. One medium tomato has about 292 mg of potassium. Concentrated forms of tomatoes, such as sauces, salsa, paste, puree, etc., contain even higher amounts of potassium. For instance, a small cup of tomato sauce contains almost 728 mg potassium. So, it is advised to skip tomato sauce and opt for alternatives such as basil or roasted red peppers. Milk If you have been advised a low potassium meal plan, you must avoid milk or at least its consumption needs to be reduced. A cup of whole milk contains around 350 mg of potassium. The lower the amount of fat in milk, the higher the potassium content. While you may have a small serving of milk daily, it should not exceed 300 ml. It means avoiding milk and dairy products such as buttermilk, yogurt, milk-based sweets, ice creams, and other desserts. Oranges and Orange Juice Oranges have a very high potassium content and are best avoided if diagnosed with hyperkalemia .
7 mistakes to avoid when buying a new computer
Tech

7 mistakes to avoid when buying a new computer

With all the options of computer brands available in the market today, you might think it is effortless to pick up one. However, with so many choices, it can get tricky as buying a computer is a hefty, long-term investment. That’s why you should be aware of some common buying mistakes people would make while purchasing this device. And so, here are a few things to avoid before you invest in a computer : Buying without knowing your needs Never buy a computer just because everyone is buying it or there’s a lot of hype around it. While you may want to prioritize aesthetics and popularity, you need to identify your need for a computer and its software . Make a list of all the features that you would need and get the computer configured accordingly. Unfamiliar with different software programs Not knowing the right software may cost you heavily. Purchasing expensive software with a long list of features may not be the best thing to do if half of these features don’t even apply to your work. Next, know how to install and use the software. You also need to know if the software is protected against bugs with an antivirus program and consider the after-sale service of the software. Not considering different operating systems There are four primary operating systems you should know – Microsoft, Apple, Google, and Linux. While technology has made it easier to switch between these operating systems, you may often find one or more applications not working on alternative systems. So, if you have an expensive software installed, check with your developer if it will be compatible with the OS you plan to get. Not accounting for other computer costs A common mistake made by many while purchasing a computer is not accounting for other costs that are part of the bundle.