**Fish and Vegetables: How They Help Prevent Colorectal Cancer**

It has long been known that regular consumption of fish and vegetables promotes health. Recent studies now confirm the potential of these foods to help prevent colorectal cancer, especially when consumed as part of a pescatarian diet.

**Fish and Vegetables Help Prevent Colorectal Cancer**

This beneficial effect of a pescatarian diet is believed to be due to an increase in gut microbiome diversity, characterized by the presence of specific bacterial communities and associated with lower levels of bile acids, which are potentially carcinogenic intestinal metabolites.

So, go ahead and enjoy fresh fish and seasonal vegetables, which can help us maintain our health.

Therefore, a diet rich in fish and vegetables may play an important role in colorectal cancer prevention, thanks to the nutritional benefits both these foods offer.

While no diet can guarantee absolute prevention of this disease, certain foods may reduce the risk of developing colorectal cancer.

Here’s how fish and vegetables contribute to this goal:

**Fish:**

– **Omega-3:** Fish, especially fatty varieties like salmon, sardines, tuna, and mackerel, are rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Scientific studies suggest that omega-3s can reduce inflammation and promote gut health, factors that may lower the risk of cancers, including colorectal cancer.

– **High-Quality Protein:** Fish is also a good source of high-quality protein, which is essential for maintaining overall health and supporting the immune system.

– **Selenium:** Fish contains selenium, a mineral with antioxidant properties that can protect cells from oxidative damage, a process involved in the development of various types of cancer.

**Vegetables:**

– **Dietary Fiber:** Vegetables are an important source of fiber, which is associated with a lower risk of colorectal cancer. Fiber feeds the “good” bacteria that make up the gut microbiome and helps us stay healthy.

– **Antioxidants:** Vegetables, especially leafy greens (spinach, kale, broccoli) and colorful ones (carrots, bell peppers, tomatoes), are rich in antioxidants. These protect cells from oxidative damage and genetic mutations that may lead to cancer.

**Balanced Diet and Healthy Lifestyle:**

– **General Prevention:** In addition to including fish and vegetables, a healthy and balanced diet that limits the consumption of red and processed meats, alcohol, and saturated fats is essential to reduce the risk of colorectal cancer. An active lifestyle with regular exercise is equally important.

– **Weight Management:** Maintaining a healthy body weight also reduces the risk of developing several types of cancer, including colorectal cancer.

For personalized advice or a diet plan, contact:

**Dr. Maria Luisa Scarabelli**

Nutrition Biologist

Phone:+39 02 58300458

Mobile: +39 3385317023

Office in Italy

Milan Viale Bligny n. 15,  c.a.p. 20136

Milan Viale Legioni Romane n.65/2,  c.a.p. 20147