Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. Did you know that eating whole grains as part of a diet high in fibre is important in the prevention of colon cancer? Colon cancer is a cancer in the large intestine and according to the Colorectal Cancer Association of Canada, 1 in 14 men and 1 in 16 women will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer. There are many lifestyle factors which can help in lowering the risk of developing colon cancer.

Choosing whole grains is one of the many lifestyle choices you can make to lower the risk of developing colon cancer. Whole grains not only boast tremendous flavour, they are a great source of fibre which can help to keep bowels moving regularly and aid in healthy digestion. Other foods that contain fibre include fruit, vegetables, beans and lentils.

Food high in fibre also help to keep you feeling full longer which may help in achieving and maintaining a heathy body weight, another important factor which can help in lowering the risk of developing colon cancer.

So, how can you begin to enjoy whole grains in your day? It’s easy. Start your day off with a fibre boost by choosing a whole grain cereal or a steaming bowl of oatmeal for breakfast. Top your cereal with your favorite fresh or frozen fruit… change it up and enjoy a variety of fruit on your cereal. Switch it up at lunch and make your sandwich with a whole grain pita or a whole grain tortilla wrap instead of “white” bread. At dinner, make your starch choice a whole grain such as a pasta salad made with whole grain pasta instead of “white” pasta. Try our fresh Summertime Pasta Salad made with whole grain pasta for a refreshing salad and a boost of fibre.

However you choose to include whole grains in your day, enjoy the flavour and know you are taking steps to lower your risk of colon cancer!