We asked Anita McLaughlin of Norton Healthcare to explain the link between cancer and nutrition, and some cancer-fighting foods she recommends.
Q: Is there a link between nutrition and cancer? Please explain.
A: The American Cancer Society says that "one-third of all cancer deaths in the U.S. each year are linked to diet & physical activity." And the American Institute for Cancer Research states that about 45% of colorectal cancers in the U.S. are preventable each year through diet, staying a healthy weight and being physically active. Current recommendations are that adults be physically active 30 minutes/day. It is okay to divide this into 5 - 10 minute increments.
Q: Are there certain foods that people can eat now that can help prevent or decrease their chance of colon cancer? What foods?
A: Overall, diets that are high in vegetables, fruits, & whole grains have been linked with lower colorectal cancer risk.
Q: Are there foods or beverages that can increase chances of colon cancer?
A:
Many studies have found a link between red or processed meat intake and colorectal cancer risk.
See Anita's full Q&A here, where she talks about foods survivors should eat, the importance of unprocessed food, and the link between emotions and digestion.
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