How to Prevent Colon Polyps
A colon polyp is a tumor that grows in the lining of your colon. Although they are usually benign, some may become cancerous. As the polyp grows larger, your risk of cancer is higher. It can be removed during a colonoscopy while you are sedated. There are ways to prevent them from forming.
Things You'll Need
- Red, orange, yellow and green fruits and vegetables
- Folic acid
- Fiber
- Calcium
Instructions
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Eat fruits and vegetables that contain antioxidants. These include oranges, strawberries, carrots, peppers, cabbage, Brussels sprouts and broccoli.
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Make sure you are getting at least 400 micrograms of folic acid daily from your diet or from a multivitamin or folic acid supplement. Examples of foods that contain folic acid are leafy vegetables, liver and some fortified cereals.
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Include fiber-rich foods in your diet such as whole grains and cereals. Besides lowering your risk of cancerous polyps, fiber has many other health benefits.
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Make sure you are getting enough calcium. It regulates cell growth. You should be getting 1,000 mg daily, and following menopause, women should get 1,500 mg daily to reduce their risk of osteoporosis.
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Do not smoke. Smokers are at a higher risk of cancerous polyps.
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Be active. An active lifestyle including exercise, along with a healthy diet may reduce your risk of all cancers.
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Tips & Warnings
A low dose of aspirin, taken daily, may reduce your risk of cancerous colon polyps. However, aspirin is not recommended for those who have gastrointestinal disorders. Consult your physician before you begin taking aspirin for this reason.
Cancerous colon polyps may be genetic. If you have a family history of colon cancer, it is recommended that you be tested regularly.
