Rising colon cancer in young adults: 5 fibre-rich foods to fight colon cancer

Colon cancer cases are rising among younger adults. Experts say low-fibre diets may be one reason. Adding fibre-rich foods like chia seeds, flax seeds, and psyllium husk could help support gut health and reduce risk. (Pic: Pexels)

• Colon cancer rates rising among young adults, prompting concern
• High-fibre foods like psyllium, flax, and chia may lower risk
• Fibre feeds gut bacteria, producing anti-cancer compounds

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Colon cancer rates, especially among young adults, are on the rise. It develops when abnormal cells begin to grow in a part of the large intestine called the colon, which is responsible for breaking down food so that the body can efficiently use and absorb it.

While this marked increase has prompted the need for earlier screening, more public awareness, and revised diagnostic approaches, there are preventive measures that can be taken to protect yourself. One of them is increasing your fibre intake.

How does fibre help prevent colon cancer?

Dr Joseph Salhab, a US-based gastroenterologist took to his Instagram account and shared that low-fibre foods may be responsible for the disease and consuming enough of the nutrient can help. “Unfortunately, we are seeing more Colon Cancer in Gen Z and Millennials — and low-fibre diets may be one reason. The good news is that high-fibre foods can actually help lower your risk of colon cancer,” he wrote.

Also Read: Gastroenterologist explains symptoms of colon cancer, suggests ways to detect it early

The gastroenterologist further added, “Fibre feeds your gut bacteria, which then produce powerful anti-cancer compounds like butyrate. These compounds help keep your colon cells healthy, reduce inflammation, and support your body’s ability to clear waste and harmful substances more efficiently.”

Fibre mocktails get the doctor’s nod

Dr Salhab shared a video where a woman can be seen making a fibre mocktail. She revealed how she makes it every day for herself and her husband because colon cancer stats terrify her.

This made the doctor share five fibre-rich foods that can help you make healthy drinks and reduce the risk. These include:

Psyllium husk

Adding psyllium husk to your drink is a good idea, as it forms a soluble gel in your gut that can help with both diarrhoea and constipation.

Flax seeds

Flax seeds have soluble fibre, plus lignins, which are potent polyphenols, and omega-3 fatty acids that can reduce inflammation.

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A post shared by Dr. Joseph Salhab (@thestomachdoc)

Chia seeds

Chia seeds are one of the most nutrient-dense options and are enjoyed by many. They have fibre, protein, magnesium, omega-3s, and antioxidants in just one spoonful.

Acacia fibre

One of the gentlest options, acacia fibre is a slow-fermenting prebiotic. It builds healthy gut bacteria without bloating.

Also Read: 5 ways to reduce colon cancer risk, according to Harvard-trained gastroenterologist

Hemp seeds

Technically, hemp seeds are low in fibre but add complete protein, magnesium, anti-inflammatory fats, and can support your overall gut health.

FAQs on Best Foods to Fight Colon Cancer

1. What are some high-fibre foods that can help prevent colon cancer?

High-fibre foods include psyllium husk, flax seeds, chia seeds, acacia fibre, and hemp seeds.

2. How does fibre intake reduce the risk of colon cancer?

Fibre feeds gut bacteria that produce anti-cancer compounds like butyrate, which keep colon cells healthy, reduce inflammation, and aid in waste clearance.

3. Can fibre-rich drinks help reduce the risk of colon cancer?

Yes, incorporating fibre-rich foods into drinks, like fibre mocktails, can help lower the risk of colon cancer.

4. Are there specific seeds that are particularly beneficial for colon health?

Yes, seeds such as flax, chia, and hemp are beneficial due to their fibre, protein, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.