Colorectal cancer on the rise among young adults: Top Los Angeles surgeon lists five foods and drinks to avoid | — Times of India | By my thinkers

Why do Millennials and Generation Z get colon cancer?

The data is worrying. Colorectal cancer, once viewed as a disease of the elderly, is now on the rise at alarming rates among young people – those under 50 years of age. Recent analyzes reveal a terrifying increase, with infection rates increasing by more than 185% In the age group 20-24 years.

This shift has highlighted lifestyle, especially diet, which many experts believe fueled this early epidemic. Dr. Karen Zagian, a leading board-certified colorectal surgeon in Los Angeles, recently highlighted the crucial connection between our daily diet and increased cancer risk.

The message is clear: What you eat and drink today can determine your health tomorrow.

⛔ Surgeon’s Warning: 5 items to cut back on

Dr. Zaghian advises young people to significantly reduce or eliminate the following five common foods and drinks, noting their strong association with an increased risk of colorectal cancer:

1. Red meat

Problem: Consumption of red meat (beef, lamb, and pork) has long been associated with CRC risk, and is associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer. 18% increased risk.
Danger: The risk doubles if it is meat Charred (cooked over flame), because this creates additional carcinogenic compounds.
an act: Reduce your food intake significantly, focusing on lean protein sources instead.

2. Processed meat

Problem: This category includes bacon, sausages, hot dogs, ham, salami and deli meats – convenient items often found in lunch boxes and fast food meals.
Danger: Consuming just one serving per day can increase your risk of colorectal cancer by 100%. 15% to 35%. Nitrates and preservatives used in processing are the main culprit.
an act: Avoid them as much as possible. There is no set “safe” amount.

3. Sweetened drinks

Problem: Store-bought juices, sodas, and sodas loaded with high fructose corn syrup, sucrose, and fructose.
Danger: These sugar-laden fluids are strongly associated with the development of CRC. One study found that two servings per day The risk doubled Compared to those who drank it less than once a week.
an act: Choose water, unsweetened tea, or sparkling water with fresh fruit instead.

4. Alcohol

Problem: This includes beer and wine, and the risk is particularly compounded in individuals who consume alcohol daily.
Danger: Alcohol increases the risk of multiple cancers, including colorectal cancer. Like processed meat, there is no set safe amount.
an act: Limit or stop drinking alcohol.

5. Ultra-processed foods (UPFs)

Problem: Anything that comes pre-packaged and contains ingredients you wouldn’t normally use in your home kitchen (emulsifiers, artificial sweeteners, food dyes). Examples include potato chips, packaged cereals, store-bought bread, and ready-to-eat pasta.
Danger: UPFs are associated with various bowel conditions and increased risk of CRC due to hidden additives. They disrupt the gut microbiome and cause chronic inflammation.
an act: Prioritize whole, unprocessed foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Your gut health is your greatest defense

The sharp rise in the incidence of colorectal cancer is a wake-up call that our fast-paced modern diet is having a disastrous impact on gut health. It’s often the cumulative effect of these daily choices — soda with lunch, bacon at breakfast, packaged snacks — that creates the perfect environment for cancer to grow.
As Dr. Zaghian suggests, although this information can be scary, it’s also empowering. Diet is a Modifiable risk factor. By making conscious choices today to reduce these five factors and increase your intake of whole foods, you can take control of your long-term health and significantly reduce your personal risks.
The time to prioritize colon health is now, not when symptoms appear.
What will you exclude from your diet this week to reduce your risk? Share your healthy swaps in the comments!