Deadly cancer occurs when abnormal cells divide and spread in an uncontrollable manner, potentially damaging surrounding tissues and organs. There are more than 200 types of cancer that can affect the human body, but health experts have highlighted the importance of preventing "deadly cancer," particularly bowel cancer. It is believed that diet is one of the main lifestyle factors behind bowel cancer. Considering this, Dr. Dave Nichols, a general practitioner with the UK's National Health Service, revealed four steps we can all take to reduce the risk of bowel cancer:
- **Follow a Balanced Diet**: Nichols stated, "The best way to improve gut health is to drink at least 2 to 3 liters of water daily, exercise regularly, and follow a balanced diet containing a variety of whole fresh foods primarily from plant sources, such as fruits, vegetables, beans, and whole grains."
- **Increase Fermented Food Intake**: Nichols explained, "There is evidence that probiotics may benefit gut health, and the best sources are fermented foods such as yogurt, green olives, soft cheese, and sourdough."
- **Eat Plenty of Brown Fiber, Fruits, Vegetables, Beans, and Oats**.
- **Avoid Ultra-Processed Foods**: One should limit the intake of ultra-processed foods, such as potato chips, breakfast cereals, sausages, and mass-produced bread.
Nichols noted that these steps not only help reduce the risk of bowel cancer but also maintain overall gut health, reducing issues like constipation, diarrhea, bloating, and gas. Common symptoms of bowel cancer include:
- Changes in bowel habits.
- The need to pass stool more or less than usual.
- Presence of blood in the stool.
- Abdominal pain.
- A lump in the abdomen.
- Bloating.
- Unexplained weight loss.
- Severe fatigue without a known reason.
