Diets high in fat and cholesterol (especially from animal sources) have been linked to an increased risk of colon cancer. Low-fiber diets have also been associated with increased risk, but the research isn't as clear. This recommendation is independent of weight. Even if you can eat steak and liver at every meal and stay trim, you're still increasing your risk of developing colon cancer by virtue of what you're eating. A balanced diet seems to be the way to go.
Since diabetics have an increased risk of developing colon cancer, it's also a good idea to avoid food choices that are known to lead to diabetes. In general, these include high-glycemic foods like sugary snacks and refined carbohydrates, often referred to as "white" foods. Examples include white sugar, white rice, white bread, and white pasta. Less-processed versions like brown rice, whole-grain bread, and wheat pasta are healthy substitutes.
To learn more about eating a balanced diet, check out Exploring the USDA Food Pyramid, from About's Guide to Nutrition.
Related Research:
- Can Curry and Onions Really Prevent Colon Cancer?
- Fish Triumphs Over Cow
- Sugary Foods Linked to Colon Cancer
- More Bad News about Red Meat
- Insulin Increases Colorectal Cancer Risk
- Pre-Diabetes Increases Colon Cancer Risk
- Fatty Diet Increases Colon Cancer Risk
Sources:
Colorectal Cancer Prevention and Treatment. National Foundation for Cancer Research. Accessed 15 Jun. 2008 [http://www2.nfcr.org/site/PageServer?pagename=cancers_colorectal].
Detailed Guide: Colon and Rectum Cancer: What Are the Risk Factors for Colorectal Cancer? American Cancer Society. 5 Mar. 2008. Accessed 15 Jun. 2008 [http://www.cancer.org/docroot/CRI/content/CRI_2_4_2X_What_are_the_risk_factors_for_colon_and_rectum_cancer.asp].
Global Strategy on Diet, Physical Activity & Health: Documents and Publications: Chronic Disease Information Sheets: Physical Activity. World Health Organization. Accessed 15 Jun. 2008 [http://www.who.int/dietphysicalactivity/publications/facts/pa/en/index.html].
Overview: Colon and Rectum Cancer: What Causes Colorectal Cancer? American Cancer Society. 5 Mar. 2008. Accessed 15 Jun. 2008 [http://www.cancer.org/docroot/CRI/content/CRI_2_2_2X_What_causes_colorectal_cancer.asp?sitearea=].
