Final answer:
To decrease the risk of cancer and large intestinal diseases, an individual's diet should be increased in fiber. Fiber-rich diets contribute to reducing the risk of colon cancer, promoting regular bowel movements, and helping in the excretion of bile acids and carcinogens. Good sources include whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes.
Step-by-step explanation:
To reduce the risk of cancer and other large intestinal diseases, such as diverticulosis, an individual should increase his or her consumption of fiber. Fiber promotes healthy bowel movements by adding bulk, regulates the absorption of blood glucose, helps in removing excess cholesterol by binding it in the small intestine, and is inversely associated with the risk of developing colon cancer. The function of fiber in hastening the excretion of bile acids and increasing the rate of passage through the colon plays a crucial role in diluting the concentration of carcinogens, thereby reducing their exposure to the colon.
Foods high in dietary fiber include whole grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables, which have been linked to numerous health benefits such as a decreased risk of death, coronary heart disease, and a lower rate of colon cancer and type 2 diabetes. To maintain a well-balanced diet, one should ensure that carbohydrates are supplemented with proteins, vitamins, and fats. Incorporating a diet rich in whole grains and fiber, alongside regular exercise and sufficient water intake, is a sensible approach to loss weight and reducing health risks.