- Making changes to your diet may help you fight bowel cancer or reduce your risk of developing it.
- When building a diet, it’s equally important to know which foods to eat and which to avoid.
- Look for nutrients like antioxidants and fiber, and avoid processed meats and refined sugars.
Bowel cancer, also known as colon cancer and colorectal cancer, is one of the most common types of cancer. In fact, Medical News Today says it’s the third most common cancer in the United States. If you or a loved one has bowel cancer, then you might wonder if dietary changes can make a difference.
Changing your diet won’t cure bowel cancer, but it can help support the treatment and recovery process. With this in mind, here are 10 foods you should eat or avoid if you have bowel cancer or want to reduce your risk of developing it.
Nutrients to Include in Your Diet
A nutrient-dense diet can help your body fight bowel cancer and recover from treatments. But which nutrients are most helpful? Generally, the Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA) recommends focusing on electrolytes, fiber, antioxidants, protein, and healthy fats.
Additionally, the source emphasizes the importance of adequate hydration. Staying hydrated can help reduce treatment-related side effects, so they recommend “eight glasses of water or low-sugar electrolyte drinks per day.”
Now that we’ve covered some general recommendations for a bowel cancer diet, let’s look at five foods to eat and five foods to avoid.