Colorectal Cancer and More Veggies

Dear Friends,

Do you ever feel this way?

I’m a Mom with two adolescents and a full-time job. I never made time to prepare healthy dinners as I always had so much to do. I wish I would have modified our meal plans sooner. Now I have colorectal cancer. Now I’m ready for the change.

Colorectal cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in the US and the 2nd leading cause of cancer-related deaths, affecting both men and women. More than 90% of cases occur in people aged 50 or older.

Yes! to Fresh Produce

We are fortunate to have such a variety of fresh produce which provides many beneficial nutrients and non-nutrients, fibers and phytochemicals that protect us against chronic illness including these types of cancer. Vegetables tend to be high in nutrients such as fiber, folate, vitamin C, beta-carotene and bioflavonoids. Unfortunately, about 70% of Americans don’t consume enough daily servings. You know, people tell us it’s because they don’t have time but one important tip is planning ahead so you use your fresh produce as soon as possible and cook larger portions to freeze the rest for a later date.

Ready to get healthy?

Contact Debbie today for a Nutrition Consultation!

More cabbage please!

Right now is the best time to protect yourself against colorectal cancer with our seasonal produce – eat more cabbage, kale, turnips, bok choi, chard and spinach. Certain substances in our winter greens known as isothiocyanates and indoles protect cells against the effect of carcinogens and can decrease tumor development in the colon.

Eat more alliums

Allium, who? Let’s keep it simple: onions, garlic, leeks, chives, scallions and shallots. These have organosulfur compounds that have shown anti-cancer activities in the initial development and progression of cancer.
What’s on our dinner plate for tonight?

Cabbage, kale and leek soup: chop and mince these vegetables and cook for about ten minutes in olive oil. Then add eight cups of broth, fresh herbs like cilantro, some salt and pepper. Cook for about 40 minutes. Once cool, blend for a thicker consistency (you might want to add ½ cup of low-fat milk). Voila – something healthy and warm for our cool evenings!

Share your Comments:

What changes have you made since being diagnosed with Colorectal Cancer?

About Debbie

Debbie Polisky, MS, MBA, CLT is a Bilingual Nutritionist, Zumba Instructor, Wellness Consultant and Adjunct Faculty who uses mind and body techniques, such as mindfulness, stress management, exercise, dance/zumba, yoga and nutrition to improve the lives of patients, students and the community. She has over 20 years of experience in the healthcare field, in two countries, Argentina and in USA and in her two native languages, English and Spanish.