Though colon cancer is a threat to health, several measures can be taken to evade the risk of its development. While a sedentary lifestyle is a major factor responsible for colon cancer, exercise, on the other hand, helps prevent it.
How does exercise protect against colon cancer?
Although the exact causes of colon cancer are unknown, research has suggested a number of ways to prevent it. One of the best ways to prevent colon cancer is through physical exercise. Weight control is a must, as obesity is a major risk factor for colon cancer. Exercise plays an important role in maintaining a healthy body weight, preventing obesity and, in turn, preventing colon cancer.
Insulin resistance increases the risk of cancer of the colon. Exercise helps our body regulate insulin in an efficient manner, thereby preventing the likelihood of colon cancer.
Inflammation is one of the major causes of colon cancer. Exercise also lowers inflammation in the body and decreases the risk of colon cancer. Added to this, exercise could improve gut motility and, thus, bowel functions, minimizing the chances of polyp development that may progress to colon cancer.
Also Read: All About Colorectal Polyps: What You Should Know
How much exercise should one do to prevent colon cancer?
According to research, 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity each week and 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity physical activity per week are enough to decrease the chances of colon cancer.
Conclusion
Please remember that colon cancer is very dependent on a person’s lifestyle. Daily exercise creates a broad spectrum of positive effects. Proper nutrition, regular screening, and non-smoking are also related to a decreased risk of colon cancer. It is always better to check with a gastrointestinal surgeon to have better chances of surviving colon cancer.