Conducted studies suggest that there are things that may help patients in this regard.
Reducing to a normal weight and staying there; studies suggest that excessive weight and obesity increase relapse risk of the cancer and the mortality rates for colorectal cancer. Other benefits of having a healthy weight are too great to ignore.
An active lifestyle; studies suggest that having regular physical activity decrease colon and rectum cancer relapse risk and the mortality rates of these. Although the required physical activity amount is not clear, we can say that more is better.
Healthy nutrition; Some studies claim that patients who consume vegetables, fruits, whole grains, chicken and fish products live longer after the colon and rectum cancer treatment than those who consume excess amount of refined sugar, fat, red and processed meat products. However, it is not clear whether this positive effect is on the colorectal cancer itself or it is because of other effects of healthy nutrition. Indeed, healthy nutrition is always beneficial regardless, and it is not disputed that healthy nutrition decreases other important health conditions such as heart disease and diabetes.
Dietary supplements; No evidence was shown as to the ability of these products for stopping the colon and rectum cancer development or preventing the relapse. However, this does not mean none of them have any benefit, it only states that their benefits are not scientifically proven.
Vitamin D; Some studies claim better results in colon and rectum cancer patients whose blood vitamin D levels are higher, however, positive effects of vitamin D intake is not clear.
Calcium; Some studies suggest that calcium intake for patients who previously had polyp may reduce new colorectal polyp development. However, there is no sufficient scientific data on this.
Alcohol; An association between alcohol consumption and colon and rectum cancer development is shown especially in men. However, the association between alcohol consumption and colon and rectum cancer relapse is not clear. American Cancer Association advises no more than 1 glass of alcohol for women and 2 glasses of alcohol for men in order for them to reduce their risk of certain cancer types including colon and rectum cancers.
Quitting smoking; Studies show that mortality rates related to cancer or other reasons in colon or rectum cancer patients are higher. Aside from colon and rectum cancer risk, benefits of quitting smoking are undisputed.