Risk of colorectal cancer may increase with these common foods

O regular consumption and in large quantities of certain foods is associated with a higher risk of colorectal cancer, as highlighted by an EatingWell article. Experts highlighted four types of food to be taken into account. 

1. Processed meat

Sausages, sausages, bologna and bacon lead the list with regard to processed meats. Although turkey breast is technically classified as processed, the risk is lower. 

Studies suggest that regular consumption of processed and red meat may increase the risk of the disease. Experts believe that this is due to certain preservatives and compounds, which can damage the digestive tract cells.

The ideal will be to eat as little as possible, and these foods should only be considered for special occasions. 

2. Ultra-processed food 

Cookies, frozen meals, sugary cereals, salty cereals and fast food fall within this category. 

However, nutritionist Karen Collins revealed that not all ultra-processed foods represent the same risk of disease. That is, the best will always be to check the list of ingredients and nutritional label. 

Your goal should be to concentrate on low added sugar, salt or fat foods. 

3. Food with a lot of sugar

Sweets, aroma yogurts, cereal bars, sauces and condiments can be harmful to the health of the colon. 

“ Research does not show that sugar directly causes colon cancer, but shows that a higher intake of added sugars, especially those from drinks such as soft drinks or sweet teas, is associated with a moderate increase in the risk of colorectal cancer,” noted nutritionist Angie Boxberger.

“The added sugar can weaken the intestinal mucosa”, which functions as a “protective barrier”. “Additional sugar-rich diets can make this barrier a little ‘permeable’, allowing inflammatory compounds of the intestine to enter the bloodstream.”.

In addition, sugar can also “wear the layer of mucus lining the colon”, which acts as a barrier between intestinal bacteria and the intestinal wall. “When it gets thinner, bacteria can get too close, which can trigger more irritation and inflammation over time,” he said. 

The nutritionist advises that the origin of added sugars be checked, especially in drinks. 

4. Refined grains

White bread and rice, refined pasta and cereals are not dangerous foods by themselves, but they lack something essential: fibers. 

When the grains are refined, the outer layer of bran, which contains most of the fibers, vitamins, minerals and phytocompounds, is removed. Fibers are not just a digestive aid, they are also one of the most consistent dietary protective factors against colorectal cancer. 

These help in intestinal transit, reducing the contact time of potential carcinogens with the colon wall, as well as feeding beneficial bacteria of the intestine. 

Swap refined grains for whole grains is one of the most recommended dietary changes for colon health.