Colorectal cancer is the third most common type of cancer and also the third leading cause of cancer death among men and women worldwide. Diet factors are responsible for 70-90% of colorectal cancer, and diet optimization may prevent most cases. Studies have shown that a plant-based diet can help prevent cancer. However, colorectal cancer and its treatments interfere with the body's digestive system. It also impacts how the body digests foods and fluids and absorbs nutrients. If someone has colorectal cancer, he should incorporate healthy, plant-based foods and additionally, lean protein into his diet. This will help the body stay strong and nourished during and after treatment.

Like any cancer, the side effects of colorectal cancer and its treatment can make it hard for a patient to give his body all the vital nutrients it needs. To help manage, the patients should try the following tips:

• Eat lots of fruits and vegetables
• Drink water and stay hydrated
• Limit caffeine and alcohol
• Eat whole grains
• Stay away from additional sugar
• Have small, frequent meals

Also Read: Dietary Supplements

Eat lots of fruits and vegetables

Eat lots of fruits and vegetables. Try to add colourful fruits and vegetables to your diet. Fruits help recover after colorectal cancer treatment, packed with immune system-supporting nutrients. Dark green leafy veggies, mangos, berries, and melons are healthy choices and can be a great snack.

Drink water and stay hydrated

Drinking water frequently and eating more water-heavy foods can also help promote healthy growth and recovery. Drink water and stay hydrated as this will aid digestion and ease side effects like constipation and fatigue caused due to colorectal cancer. Try adding your water with berries or lemons if plain water is not appealing.

Limit caffeine and alcohol intake

All types of alcoholic drinks may cause cancer. Alcohol gets broken down into harmful chemicals and affects our body's chemical signals, making cancer more likely to develop. Cutting down on alcohol can minimize your cancer risk. By making a few changes to your routine, you can make a big difference in how much you're drinking.

Eat whole grains

Whole wheat is a good source of folate. Naturally occurring folate is an important B vitamin that may help protect against colon, rectum, and breast cancers. Try to add more cereals and whole grains to your meal. Whole grains are high in fibre, which can help you stay lean and lower your cancer risk. Whole grains are a great source of fibre. Dietary fibre can help you maintain a healthy weight and help reduce your risk of colorectal cancer.

Eat small, frequent meals

Eat small, frequent meals. Colorectal cancer and its treatment cause loss of appetite; this can make it easier to get all the nutrition you require when dealing with appetite or weight changes and may also help the body ease digestion and absorption. Small, frequent meals are great for symptom management beyond appetite changes, like fatigue, reflux and diarrhea.

Also Read: Anti Cancer Diet

Impact of supplements on colorectal cancer

Vitamins

Chemoprevention is using vitamins to prevent cancer. Antioxidants have been studied for their effects on cancer prevention and risk reduction. They may defend against cell damage caused by unstable molecules, known as free radicals. Beta-carotene, lycopene, vitamins C, E, and A, and other substances are antioxidants present in tea, red wine, and chokeberries or Anthocyanin-rich extract.

Vitamins & Supplements

Chemoprevention is using vitamins to prevent cancer. Antioxidants have been studied for their effects on cancer prevention and risk reduction. They may defend against cell damage caused by unstable molecules, known as free radicals. Beta-carotene, lycopene, vitamins C, E, and A, and other substances are antioxidants present in tea, red wine, and chokeberries or Anthocyanin-rich extract.

Aspirin

Aspirin has been linked to some studies in cancer prevention. This is because aspirin can block the enzyme cyclooxygenase2 (COX-2), which many tumours produce. A recent study by the University of Oxford found that 75 mg. of aspirin taken daily for five years lowered the risk of colorectal cancer by 24 per cent and the risk of dying from colon cancer by 35 per cent. There are side effects that come along with an aspirin plan.

Calcium

Calcium, when taken with vitamin D, is thought to be linked to cancer prevention. Daily use of calcium carbonate, resulted in a 15 per cent reduction in colorectal adenomatous polyp recurrence. Calcium is commonly present in dark green vegetables, some grains, legumes, and nuts. Calcium supplements, when taken daily may protect against colon polyps for lactose-sensitive individuals.

Curcumin

Curcumin has been studied for its effects on cancer prevention. It is a type of ginger commonly used in Indian food. It has great anti-inflammatory and anti-tumour properties. The Study suggests taking 3.6 grams of curcumin daily.

Also Read: Anti Cancer Foods

Also, eating curries that are rich in turmeric is great as well.

Garlic is a bulb that may reduce cancer risk, particularly gastrointestinal tract cancers. Garlic contains antibacterial properties and may be able to prevent the formation and activation of cancer-causing substances and boost DNA repair.

Folic Acid

Folic Acid and B Vitamins may also aid in colon cancer prevention. Recent research suggests a deficiency in folic acid has been linked to cancer.

Omega-3 Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids

Omega-3 PUFAs are healthy fatty acids and may be linked to colon cancer prevention. They are predominantly found in fish and nuts.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is not a vitamin at all but in fact, a fat-soluble prohormone that has been linked to the reduced risk of colon cancer. The results have not been consistent, though. Vitamin D exists naturally in sunlight, eggs, fish, oil and store-bought supplements. Other vitamins such as Reishi mushrooms, IP-6, Magnesium and Citrus Bioflavonoids are also helpful in colon cancer prevention.

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Reference:

1. Pericleous M, Mandair D, Caplin ME. Diet and supplements and their impact on colorectal cancer. J Gastrointest Oncol. 2013 Dec;4(4):409-23. doi: 10.3978/j.issn.2078-6891.2013.003. PMID: 24294513; PMCID: PMC3819783.
2. Ryan-Harshman M, Aldoori W. Diet and colorectal cancer: Review of the evidence. Can Fam Physician. 2007 Nov;53(11):1913-20. PMID: 18000268; PMCID: PMC2231486.