The colon cancer mortality rate in people under 55 has been rising about 1% annually since the mid-2000s, with diagnoses in people under 50 expected to double by 2030.
While experts are still debating the cause of the alarming increase, one line of defense could lie in your diet.
Citing a 2023 study, gastroenterologist Joseph Salhab recently shared on Instagram some fruits that have been shown to reduce your risk of colon cancer.
These tasty summer favorites make a great fruit salad and can serve as soldiers in the battle against colon cancer.
Watermelon
Noting that it can lower your risk of colon cancer by a whopping 26%, Salhab says watermelon “contains lycopene, an antioxidant that may protect against cell damage,” while its “high water content promotes regularity.”
Watermelon isn’t just a summertime staple — it’s a powerhouse of hydration and antioxidants. Beyond gut health, watermelon’s vitamin C and A content help boost the immune system and support healthy skin.
Apples
An apple a day may just keep colon cancer at bay — or at least reduce your risk by 25%.
Apples are “high in fiber, which promotes healthy bowel movements and may reduce exposure of the colon to carcinogens” and they “contain polyphenols, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects,” Salhab wrote.
Apples can also help protect you against other serious conditions, such as heart disease and diabetes.
Research suggests consuming this crunchy fruit three to six times per week can slash the risk of premature death by just under 30%.
Kiwis
Salhab notes that kiwis are an “excellent source of fiber, aiding in digestive health,” which is probably why they’re linked to a 13% reduction in colon cancer risk.
They’re also “rich in vitamin C and other antioxidants,” he points out, protecting cells from oxidative stress that can lead to cancer.
Studies have also suggested that regularly eating kiwi can help regulate bowel movements and reduce gastrointestinal discomfort, making it a great choice for digestive wellness overall.
Citrus fruits
Oranges, grapefruits, lemons and limes do more than brighten up your plate — they may also help lower your colon cancer risk by 9%.
Once again, much of the protection comes from their high vitamin C content, although they also “contain flavonoids, which may have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties,” Salhab wrote.
As a bonus, a recent study found that oranges can also lower your risk of depression by 20%.
A groundbreaking new study suggests that a gut-dwelling bacterium may be behind the recent surge in early-onset colorectal cancer cases.
“We believe this exposure occurs very early in life — likely during the first decade — when children are infected,” Dr. Ludmil Alexandrov, senior study author and a professor at the University of California San Diego, told The Post, noting that factors such as “diet, inflammation and genetics — are also likely contributors.”
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