Why Colorectal Cancer is increasing in Young Koreans.
Colorectal cancer in young Koreans.
Colorectal cancer rates have been rising in Korea, especially among young adults in their 20s and 30s. In the 1960s, this type of cancer was almost unheard of, but today, diet, lifestyle, and environmental changes have contributed to its growth. Let’s explore each factor to understand how to prevent this disease.
1. Diet: High Meat Consumption
The Korean diet has shifted significantly over the years. Traditionally, Koreans relied on plant-based protein from soybeans, but meat has largely replaced it. While protein from meat is beneficial in small amounts, excessive consumption can strain the digestive system.
Here’s why:
- Excess Protein Consumption: For the average adult, only 1 gram of protein per kilogram of body weight is necessary. For example, a 60kg person needs about 60g of protein daily, equivalent to the amount in a single egg. However, typical meals often far exceed this, especially during gatherings where up to 100g of meat may be consumed, leading to unprocessed proteins.
- Effect of Excess Protein: When protein is consumed beyond the required amount, it cannot be stored and is instead broken down, producing waste products expelled through urine. This process can overload the kidneys and produce cloudy, foamy urine the following day.
- Cultural Preference for Meat: Meat consumption is still often viewed as a symbol of prosperity. However, regular overconsumption strains the intestines, impacting immunity and increasing the likelihood of cancer.
Solution: Limit Meat Intake to Necessary Amounts
Eating only the amount of protein your body needs each day is the best way to protect your health. Reducing unnecessary protein and focusing on balanced meals can reduce the strain on your digestive system and help prevent colorectal cancer.
2. Eating Habits: Timing and Preparation of Meals
The time and method of eating can also influence cancer risks. Many people consume meat in the evening, which takes up to 5 hours to digest. Consuming meat late at night interferes with the natural rest cycle of the intestines, causing fatigue and potential health issues.
Avoid Late-Night Meat
: If you consume meat around 6 or 7 PM, try to sleep no earlier than 11 PM, allowing time for digestion. Avoid late-night meals, as they prolong the workload of the digestive organs.- Grilling vs. Boiling: Koreans often prefer grilled meat, which produces PAHs (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons) when charred—an established carcinogen. Additionally, burnt parts contain benzo(a)pyrene, a group 1 carcinogen that can lead to cell mutations if consumed when immunity is compromised.
Solution: Healthy Preparation and Timing
Eat moderate portions of meat earlier in the day and consider boiling or steaming instead of grilling. Limiting charring on meat can reduce cancer risk factors.
3. Alternative Protein Sources: Plant-Based Proteins
Returning to traditional plant-based protein sources, such as soy, can be a healthier alternative. Soy-based foods, like fermented cheonggukjang or doenjang, offer an easily digestible protein that is absorbed by the body far more efficiently than processed soy products.
- Avoid Processed Soy: While convenient, soy milk and tofu only provide about 65% absorption due to their processing. In contrast, fermented soy can offer up to 95% absorption, making it a superior choice.
- Embrace Fermented Foods: Cheonggukjang and doenjang are highly recommended, especially for young adults in their 20s and 30s. Their high protein absorption and gut health benefits help protect against cancer.
4. Lifestyle and Environmental Factors
In addition to dietary shifts, stress and environmental factors play roles in cancer development. An active, balanced lifestyle, reduced meat intake, and intentional community interactions release positive hormones that enhance immunity and resilience against diseases like cancer.
Conclusion: Small Changes Can Prevent Big Health Risks
Korea’s rising colorectal cancer rates among young adults are a clear indication of the need for lifestyle changes. By embracing balanced, plant-based diets, monitoring meat intake, and avoiding charred foods, we can prevent colorectal cancer while supporting overall health.
Related Products
Recommended Health Products
For improved digestion and immunity, we recommend adding cheonggukjang, doenjang, and gochujang to your diet. These traditional Korean fermented foods offer deep flavors and are packed with essential nutrients.
- Cheonggukjang: Rich in probiotics and protein, cheonggukjang promotes gut health and supports digestion and immunity. Shop Cheonggukjang
- Doenjang: This naturally fermented soybean paste is high in antioxidants and protein, making it a great addition to a healthy diet. Shop Doenjang
- Gochujang: Packed with vitamins and minerals, gochujang adds a spicy kick while providing beneficial nutrients from the fermentation process. Shop Gochujang
These fermented foods are easy to incorporate into daily meals and offer significant health benefits. Click each link to learn more and explore purchasing options.