Colon cancer is extremely prevalent in our society. In fact, it is the third most common type of cancer in the U.S., with approximately 150,000 people diagnosed a year.

However, statistics show that 75% of all colon cancer cases can be avoided. We have compiled a list of 6 effective methods for preventing colon cancer for all Long Beach compounding pharmacy patients.

Keep Healthy Weight

Obesity and inordinate weight gain have been linked to at least 10 different cancers. It is a major contributing factor in several different health problems. The ideal weight is about what you weighed when you were 18 years old. Realistically, adults are going to be heavier than that, but if you can approach that weight, you are on the right path.

Smoking is Bad 

The negative effects of smoking have been well established. Not smoking is one of the best things you can do for yourself. Smoking has been linked to several cancers, including colon cancer. For people that do smoke, the good news is that the body can start to heal as soon as you quit smoking.

Staying Active

Staying active is one of the healthiest things a person can do for themselves. People are not built for the sedentary lifestyle. A sedentary lifestyle can lead to various health problems, including cancer. We suggest at least 30 minutes a day of moderate activity.

Limit Red Meat and Processed Meat 

Eating red meat in excess, anything beef or pork, drastically increases the likelihood of developing colon cancer. Even worse still are the processed meats or lunch meats, like bacon, bologna and processed ham. Try to avoid these all together.

Vitamin D and Calcium

Vitamin D and Calcium have been demonstrated to significantly protect against colon cancer. It is recommended that people imbibe about 1,000 milligrams of vitamin D and calcium daily.

Folate in Multivitamins

A daily multivitamin is a healthy way to keep your body functioning properly. Specifically, folate has been closely linked to colon cancer prevention. However, we must warn against “mega-dose vitamins”.