Dr. Connie Pennington, MD

Food is the most Important Medicinal Therapy

 

Few people reallize that the most important therapy in the treatmetn of cancer is the food that nourishes our bodies. There is strong evidence that dietary patterns can be an indicator for the development of colorectal cancer. Diets that consist of predominately or entirely fruits and vegetables are associated with an approximately 65% reduction in the risk of colorectal cancer. A dietary pattern high in red meats and processed meat consumption, along with potatoes and refined grains, is associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer. Increased fiber intake, including whole grains, lowers the risk of developing colorectal cancer. In summary, a healthy diet for the prevention and treatment of colorectal cancer would include:

 

• Increasing fruit and vegetable intake

• Increasing whole grain intake

• Utilizing healthy fats found in nuts, seeds and olive oil

• Limiting or eliminating red meat and processed meats

• Limiting or eliminating processed foods

 

Vitamins and Minerals

 

High calcium intakes are thought to decrease the risk for colon cancer. Unabsorbed fatty acids and particular bile acids, as a result of their irritating impact on the colonic mucosa, are thought to play a potential role in the development of colon cancer. Calcium forms a complex with both acids, theoretically reducing this detrimental effect. The recommended dose is 1000mg of calcium a day. 

 

Vitamin D deficiency has been documented in colon cancer patients. Optimizing Vitamin D levels reduces colon adenomas (pre-cancerous polyp) risks by up to 30%. Insufficient Vitamin D also impairs calcium absorption. Vitamin D levels can be easily measured, and supplements are used to replace Vitamin D to around 80 nmol/L.

 

Folate, a B Vitamin, has been investigated for its overall anti-carcinogenic effects in the prevention of colon cancer but studies are mixed. Currently it is not used to prevent colon cancer but may be of assistance is populations at risk for deficiency. Folate is naturally found in dark green leafy vegetables. At risk populations for folate deficiency may include the elderly and individuals with a high alcohol intake.

 

Environmental Carcinogen Exposure

 

One of the most common exposures is to heterocyclic amines, which occurs in charred meats in addition to nitrates in processed meats. It is best to avoid red meat all together. Processed foods also contain many additives and preservatives that are carcinogenic. Carrageenan is one such thickening agent found in many dairy and non-dairy products that is considered a carcinogen. Personal care products are another source of potential carcinogens and should be carefully examined. Dangerous household cleaning products and dry cleaning chemicals should also be avoided.

 

Alcohol

 

Alcohol consumption has been implicated as a risk factor for the development of colon cancer; however, studies have been inconsistent. What is known is that individuals who regularly consume alcohol have a greater likelihood of nutrient and mineral deficiencies, that can contribute to the development of colon cancer.

 

Smoking

 

Smoking is an independent risk factor for many types of cancer and has been associated with increased risk for pre-malignant colon polyps. Interestingly, researchers have also found that smokers do not gain the protective effects associated with consuming fruits and vegetables like non-smokers. Smoking also correlates with other poor health behaviors and smokers may be less likely to seek colon cancer screening.

 

Obesity

 

Obesity does increase the risk of developing colorectal cancer, and the risk is greater for men than women. The mechanism for this effect relates to obesity and chronic inflammation, insulin resistance, DNA damage, and immunosuppression. It is advisable that a weight loss program be promptly started when colon cancer is diagnosed. Weight loss can be safely accomplished during colorectal cancer treatment under the care of your physician. 

 

 

Metabolic Syndrome & Diabetes

 

Metabolic syndrome is a group of risk factors that include obesity, inactivity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and insulin resistance. Metabolic syndrome usually precedes diabetes. Metabolic syndrome and diabetes are associated with an increased incidence of heart disease, stroke, and cancer. Healthy life style changes are the first line of treatment in reversing metabolic syndrome and diabetes.

 

Stress

 

Emotional stress, in and of itself, is not likely to cause cancer but has been shown to affect outcomes and disease progression in cancer patients. Stress is mediated by epinephrine, which can be lymphocytotoxic, and cortisol, which is an immunosuppressant. Studies have shown that prolonged stress may promote tumor growth. Mindfulness based stress reduction techniques have been shown to reduce stress hormones and their effects. 

 

Exercise

 

The US Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends 150 minutes or more of moderate intensity aerobic activity per week, along with muscle strengthening activities 2 or more days per week that work all major muscle groups. This recommendation applies to adults 18 years and older. It is a consistent finding that sedentary behavior is a risk factor for colorectal cancer.

 

Quality Sleep

 

Compromised sleep has been shown to contribute to chronic inflammation, metabolic abnormalities, heart disease, and the development of cancer. Insomnia is also a common symptom during cancer treatment. Conventional treatments including hypnotics actually suppress symptoms and disrupt sleep architecture. Guided imagery, breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, and yoga are holistic modalities to consider. 

 

Spirituality

 

Many studies have analyzed spiritual well being as being a cornerstone in the coping mechanism of dealing with cancer. Those who have a strong spiritual practice report less stress and the ability to live with more meaning and hope.