If you’re someone who’s always looking to make healthy additions to your diet to lower the risk of diseases like cancer, you’re in the right place. Recently, we came across a video on Instagram where Dr. Joseph Salhab (@thestomachdoc), a US-based gastroenterologist, shared a list of eight foods that may help reduce the risk of colon cancer. This type of cancer is on the rise worldwide and is increasingly being diagnosed in younger individuals as well.
What Is Colon Cancer?
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Colon cancer affects the largest part of the digestive system. The development of polyps in the inner lining of the colon can cause this cancer. It usually affects older people, but changes in lifestyle and diet have led to a noticeable increase in cases among younger people as well. Thankfully, with various technologies and advancements, people are now receiving the right treatment, helping them survive this disease.
Furthermore, Dr Joseph Salhab, a gastroenterologist who specialises in digestion, liver, and pancreas health, shared a video where he mentioned eight foods that can reduce the risk of colon cancer.
Also Read: Even One Drink A Day Increases The Risk Of Pancreatic Cancer, WHO Study Claims
8 Foods To Reduce Risk Of Colon Cancer
As per the doctor’s recommendation, here are eight foods you can add to your regular diet to keep colon cancer away.
1. Yoghurt
The gastroenterologist recommended consuming yoghurt regularly. Based on the results of a systematic review and meta-analysis, it shows 7% reduction in colon cancer risk, he mentioned in the post.

2. Tree nuts
Even patients suffering from stage 3 colon cancer can consume tree nuts to lower adverse risks. According to the doctor, having two or more has shown a 57% lower death risk and a 42% drop in recurrence of disease.
3. Apples
We all have heard, ‘An apple a day keeps a doctor away,’ and as per a case-control study mentioned by Dr Salhab, it has been proven that it lowers the risk of colon cancer by 47%.
4. Citrus fruits
If citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruit, and more are consumed regularly, they can help fight the risk of colon cancer by 18%.
5. Kiwi
Kiwi, with their high nutritional value, can help improve bowel movements and increase intestinal lactic acid bacteria, resulting in a healthy colon.
6. Tomatoes
Lycopene is an antioxidant found in tomatoes which can help fight cancer in the digestive system.
7. Avocado
Eating avocados regularly can highly benefit men and may lower the risk of this type of cancer by 21%.
8. Watermelon
The 2023 meta-analysis report found that a higher intake of watermelon can reduce cancer risk by 26% when compared to a lower intake.
Also Read: Ditch Vegetable Oil & Try These 9 Other Healthy Oils
However, it is to be noted that no food can eliminate the need for medical care. We are firm believers of the saying ‘prevention is better than a cure.’ So, taking a balanced diet with regular checkups can help you lead a healthy life.
Image Courtesy: Pexels
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