Eating for health after bowel cancer treatment

You have probably found that treatment for bowel cancer can be both exhausting and traumatic so don’t be surprised or disappointed that your gut feels the same way too! It can take time for you and your gut to adjust to the ‘new normal’.

Be patient and make adjustments to your diet in small increments so that you can test your tolerance levels for foods that you want to reintroduce to your diet.

Reducing risk of recurrence

There is some limited research that suggests what you eat after bowel cancer treatment can influence the likelihood of recurrence. Once you are able to tolerate a ‘normal’ diet, aim to include five portions of fruit and veg every day and avoid highly processed foods.

Foods that may reduce risk of recurrence

• Fruits
• Coloured vegetables such as peppers
• Whole grain (ie brown) bread, rice and pasta
• Legumes (peas, beans and lentils)
• Black tea
• Fish
• Poultry

Foods that may increase risk of recurrence

• Alcohol
• Red meat (beef, lamb, venison, pork)
• Processed meat (sausages, burgers, salami etc)
• Deep fried food
• Pies and pastries
• Crisps and chips
• High-fat takeaway options