Eating the right foods may help people with advanced colon cancer live longer, according to new research shared at a major cancer conference. The study followed 1,625 adults with stage 3 colon cancer and found that those who ate anti-inflammatory foods — like leafy greens, carrots, coffee and tea — had better survival rates than those who ate more processed foods, sugar and unhealthy fats.

The results showed that patients with the most inflammatory diets were up to 87% more likely to die from their cancer. On the other hand, people who ate less-inflammatory foods and exercised regularly had a much lower risk of death. Just walking briskly for an hour three times a week lowered the risk by 63%.

Experts say it can be tough for patients to make diet changes, especially during or after treatment. But with the help of dietitians and programs like Cook for Your Life, it’s possible to build healthy habits. Doctors say lifestyle choices like diet and exercise can be just as effective as some cancer drugs — and sometimes even better.

SOURCE:

NBC News, June 3, 2025