The American Institute for Cancer Research brought together a panel of experts that published the most detailed, comprehensive, and authoritative study on colorectal cancer to date. It demonstrated that colorectal cancer is one of the most preventable malignancies, based on fairly simple lifestyle changes. Almost one half of the cases annually could be prevented by consuming a more plant-based diet, exercising more, and staying lean. In the U.S. alone, it could save approximately 64,000 lives a year.Let me share with you the laundry list of findings and recommendations from the Institute’s report. - Participate in regular physical activity
- Maintain a healthy weight
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Avoid red meat, and especially processed meats:
- 7 ounces of red meat per day increases the colorectal cancer rate by 34%
- 7 ounces of processed meats per day (ham, hot dogs, bacon, sausage) increases the rate by 72%
- Decrease abdominal fat in particular
- Eat more fiber: raw fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, nuts, and seeds
- Avoid alcohol consumption
- Bio-available calcium is a factor that diminishes colorectal cancer. The benefit of dairy products is unclear. Of note is the fact that almond and coconut milks have 50% more calcium than dairy milk.
- Rely on whole food sources more than supplements
