What Can You Do
to Prevent CRC?

A healthy diet and lifestyle are key.

  • Mother was right: eat your veggies – and your fruit!
    Both have valuable anti-cancer properties and the kind of fibre that DOES help prevent colorectal cancer. Aim for five to ten half-cup servings a day.
     
  • Limit your consumption of fat, especially animal fat. 
     
  • Limit your consumption of red meat – beef, lamb and pork – and avoid processed meats. Boost your consumption of Omega rich foods.
     
  • Talk to your doctor about whether you should take a low-dose, daily aspirin.
    Studies show aspirin can reduce the incidence of polyps by 25 per cent.
     
  • Consider taking supplements.
    Preliminary research suggests that calcium carbonate (combined with magnesium, for better absorption), Vitamin D, Vitamin B-Complex and folic acid tablets may help prevent colorectal cancer. Vitamin D is also easily obtained through the consumption milk, salmon and tuna.
     
  • Get plenty of exercise.
    Sedentary life is linked to an increased incidence of colorectal cancer. Even 10 minutes a day has been shown to reduce the incidence of CRC.
     
  • Maintain a healthy weight throughout your life. 
     
  • Do not use tobacco and limit your alcohol consumption.
     
  • Learn your family’s health history. Share it with your relatives.
     
  • Get regular, appropriate screening.