World Digestive Health Day 2024: Experts Stress Balanced Diet to Prevent Digestive Diseases

On May 29, 2024, World Digestive Health Day, experts are emphasizing the critical role of a balanced diet in preventing digestive diseases, such as colon cancer. This year’s focus is on the alarming increase in colon cancer cases among younger individuals, attributed to obesity and the consumption of ultra-processed foods.

Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is the second most common cause of cancer deaths in the United States, with more than 53,000 Americans projected to die from the disease this year. Early detection and treatment are essential for managing colon cancer effectively.

A well-balanced diet rich in fiber, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can significantly reduce the risk of colon cancer. Dr. Bhavna Sharma, Head of Nutrition Science Department at ITC Limited, emphasizes that proper digestion is vital for overall health. She states, 'Digestion is at the core of our health, and it must function properly for the whole body to be in top condition.'

Why this matters: Digestive diseases, such as colon cancer, have significant implications for public health and healthcare systems worldwide. If left unchecked, the rising trend of colon cancer among younger individuals could lead to increased mortality rates, healthcare costs, and a significant burden on the economy.

The recommended daily intake of fiber for adults is between 25-35 grams, according to the National Institute of Nutrition (ICMR-NIN). However, data reveals that around 7 out of 10 individuals do not consume enough fiber, leading to severe complications related to digestive health.

Experts recommend incorporating more fiber into daily diets through foods like beans, soya, millets, seeds, nuts, and berries. Simple changes, such as choosing multigrain atta over regular flour, can help meet the daily fiber requirement. For instance, three rotis made with multigrain atta can provide 35% of the daily fiber intake.

In addition to diet, lifestyle choices such as regular exercise, adequate sleep, and hydration are vital for maintaining digestive health. Probiotics, found in yogurts, juices, and supplements, can also support gut health by aiding in the treatment of conditions like diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Research presented at Digestive Disease Week highlights the importance of gut health and various digestive diseases. For example, no association was found between oral antibiotic use and increased risk of early-onset colorectal cancer. Another study indicated that glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists might reduce the risk of all-cause mortality and major cardiovascular events in patients with obesity and metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease.

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends Americans begin regular screenings for colorectal cancer at age 45. Screening methods include colonoscopy, non-invasive stool testing, imaging scans, and a combination of endoscopic visualization with stool-based testing. Routine screening can significantly reduce the incidence and mortality of colorectal cancer, with one out of every three colorectal cancer deaths avoidable.

Insurance barriers, such as policies deeming anesthesia in endoscopies and colonoscopies as medically unnecessary, can create cost burdens and delay care. Patients are encouraged to check with their insurance companies to understand coverage before procedures.

World Digestive Health Day 2024 highlights the importance of a balanced diet and early screening in preventing digestive diseases. By adopting healthy eating habits and lifestyle choices, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of colon cancer and other digestive disorders.

Key Takeaways

• World Digestive Health Day 2024 focuses on preventing colon cancer with a balanced diet.
• Colon cancer is the 2nd leading cause of cancer deaths in the US, with 53,000 projected deaths in 2024.
• A diet rich in fiber, fruits, and veggies can reduce colon cancer risk.
• Regular exercise, sleep, and hydration are vital for maintaining digestive health.
• Screening for colon cancer at age 45 can significantly reduce incidence and mortality.