Colon Polyps and Cancer Dietary Therapy

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Summary

There is no one magic dietary bullet, no one simple step to take. It is very difficult for scientists to tease out an isolated lifestyle or dietary factor on any health question within a free living population. However, one thing is now rather clear. The western type of diet with large portions of animal meat, little fiber, low intake of vegetables, and possible low intake of vitamin D and calcium all seem to be major factors. The amount of solid information percolating into the medical literature has reached a point where a reasonable balanced colon cancer and polyp prevention program can be outlined.

  • As hard as it is, control your weight. Overweight people have more colon cancer.
  • Reduce red meat, saturated and trans-fats in the diet.
  • Take 1200 mg of calcium each day using milk or calcium carbonate supplements.
  • Take vitamin D at least 800 IU/day. Some experts say 1200 IU/day. Check with your physician.
  • Eat cruciferous vegetables.
  • Take daily aspirin, but only if discussed with your physician.
  • Take a daily multiple vitamin with adequate folate.
  • Stop smoking and/or drinking excessive alcohol.
  • Prebiotics – eat these in food or take a dietary supplement.
And don’t forget to get your regular colonoscopy.
Jackson GI