Consuming whole grains, foods with dietary fiber, dairy products reduces risk of colorectal cancer
THURSDAY, Sept. 7, 2017 (HealthDay News) -- There is strong evidence that physical activity and a healthy diet reduce the risk of colorectal cancer, according to a report published online Sept. 7 by the American Institute for Cancer Research and the World Cancer Research Fund.
Noting that colorectal cancer is the fourth most common cause of death from cancer, researchers analyzed how lifestyle factors affect the risk of developing colorectal cancer. Data were obtained from 99 studies around the world. The studies involved more than 29 million adults and more than 247,000 cases of colorectal cancer.
The researchers note that there is strong evidence that physical activity reduces the risk of colon cancer. In addition, consuming whole grains, foods containing dietary fiber, and dairy products reduces the risk of colorectal cancer, as does taking calcium supplements. Consuming red meat, processed meat, or approximately two or more alcoholic drinks per day increases the risk of colorectal cancer. Being overweight or obese and being tall increase the risk of colorectal cancer. Some evidence suggests that consuming foods containing vitamin C may reduce colon cancer risk, while consuming fish, vitamin D, and multivitamin supplements might decrease the risk of colorectal cancer. Low consumption of nonstarchy vegetables and fruit may increase the risk of colorectal cancer.
"Our Cancer Prevention Recommendations -- for preventing cancer in general -- include maintaining a healthy weight, being physically active, and eating a healthy diet. They advise eating a healthy diet rather than relying on supplements to protect against cancer," according to the report.
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