The 5 Best Canned Foods to Reduce Your Risk of Colorectal Cancer

Key Points:

• Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in the U.S., with diet playing a significant role in its risk; diets low in fiber and high in animal protein, fat, and refined carbs are linked to higher incidence rates.
• Five canned foods recommended to help reduce colorectal cancer risk include canned legumes, artichoke hearts, pumpkin, soups with whole grains, and canned oranges, all of which are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and nutrients beneficial for gut health and inflammation reduction.
• Lifestyle strategies to lower colorectal cancer risk include regular screening starting at age 45 (or earlier for high-risk individuals), increasing physical activity, reducing consumption of red and processed meats, limiting alcohol intake, and boosting dietary fiber intake.
• Experts emphasize the convenience and nutritional benefits of canned foods as easy, affordable options to increase fiber and antioxidant intake, which support a healthy gut microbiome and may reduce cancer risk.
• Additional recommendations include choosing low-sodium canned products, avoiding heavily processed canned meats, and pairing increased fiber intake with adequate hydration to minimize digestive discomfort.