Gastroenterologist Dr Joseph Salhab recently shared a list of eight everyday foods he personally includes in his diet to help reduce the risk of developing colon cancer. While he emphasized that eating these foods cannot replace medical treatment or screenings, he highlighted that adopting healthier dietary habits can play a big role in prevention alongside regular check-ups.
Colon cancer often starts as small benign growths known as polyps in the inner lining of the large intestine. As one of the most common cancers globally, early detection and a healthy lifestyle are essential for better outcomes. According to recent studies, certain foods rich in fiber antioxidants and beneficial bacteria may lower the risk of colorectal cancer significantly.
Dr Salhab’s recommendations include yoghurt tree nuts watermelon kiwi apples tomato salsa citrus fruits and avocado. He explained that these options have shown promising results in various studies. For instance consuming yoghurt regularly has been associated with a 7 percent lower risk of colorectal cancer. Adding tree nuts to your weekly diet may reduce disease recurrence and death rates in patients with stage III colon cancer by up to 57 percent.
Citrus fruits are also on the list as higher intake has been linked to an 18 percent lower risk of colorectal cancer. Eating apples daily could cut your risk by nearly half while kiwi is thought to support healthy bowel function and boost good gut bacteria. Watermelon lovers will be pleased to know that a 2023 study found eating more watermelon could lower colorectal cancer risk by 26 percent. Tomatoes especially when eaten as salsa provide lycopene an antioxidant linked to protective benefits against digestive cancers. Finally adding more avocado to your meals may help too as research suggests it can lower the risk of colorectal cancer in men by about 21 percent.
The gastroenterologist stressed that while these foods may help protect your colon adopting them should complement but never replace routine medical care screenings and professional treatment when needed. He encouraged everyone to discuss dietary choices with their doctor especially if they have a family history of colon cancer.