Colorectal cancer and symptoms
cancer (including cancer of colon, rectum, anus and appendix) is the cancer that begins with the digestive system of the body. Our digestive system processes the nutrients (vitamins, minerals, fats, protein, water and carbohydrates) to create energy, and rid the waste material from the body. The foods that we consumed travel from the stomach to small intestine. The small intestine breaks down the foods and absorbs nutrients. The small intestine is connected to the large intestine (large bowel). The first 6 feet of the large intestine is called colon and the final part of it is called rectum. Colon absorbs water and nutrients, and also stores the waste matter. The waste matters travels from colon to rectum, and finally pass out of body through anus. Colorectal cancer may start in either rectum or colon. Colorectal cancer typically starts in the inner layer of colon or rectum, and throws through some or all other layers.
Colorectal cancer symptoms This cancer is not easily detected in its early stage. As the disease progresses, these symptoms may be seen: constipations, weight loss, anemia, diarrhea, blood in the stool, vomiting, nausea, abdominal pain, pelvic pain, loss of appetite and fatigue.
Treatments for colorectal cancer The common treatments for colorectal caner include surgeon, radiation oncologists and medical oncologist. Medical treatment of colorectal cancer damages the cancerous cells in the body. Unfortunately, it may also kill the healthy cells altogether, causing unwanted side effects such as nutrients depletion, nausea, and diarrhea and skin irritation.
How to prevent colorectal cancer? Fortunately, colorectal cancer is highly preventable. We highly recommend that you have your regular screening for colorectal cancer. The screening parameters vary for different persons, so please check with your doctors for further details. In addition, start managing the risk factors that you can control especially diet and exercise. Maintain a well balanced diet that contains fiber and Omega-3 because these nutrients reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, quit smoking and cut down alcohol consumption.
How supplements can help
Below is list of nutritional supplements that help to treat and prevent colorectal cancer, slow progression of colorectal cancer, and promote your overall health:
Calcium has been linked to reduced risk of colorectal cancer risk. Calcium protects against polyps in the colon, which is a main risk factor for colon cancer. Vitamin D is needed to help the absorption of calcium.
Soy isoflavones derived from soy products, contains compounds that help to protect against colorectal cancer. It may inhibit the abnormal growth of new blood vessels, which can lead to cancer.
Flaxseed and flaxseed oils helps to reduce abnormal growth of cancer cell, which is the early sign of colorectal cancer. Flaxseed also contains lignan that can slow growth of colon tumor cells.
Antioxidants including vitamin C, vitamin E, selenium and green tea extract are all powerful antioxidants that may help to prevent or treat colorectal cancer.