3. Physical Inactivity: The Silent Scourge of Colorectal Cancer
You might think that a sedentary lifestyle only pads your waistline. Well, think again. Sitting all day, whether for work or leisure, has implications far beyond a growing gut. There’s a creepy correlation between physical inactivity and colorectal cancer. It’s like a backdoor entry for the disease, and most of us unwittingly invite it in.
The science behind this isn’t rocket science but biochemistry. Lack of physical activity slows down your metabolism. This sluggish pace can lead to an accumulation of insulin, and elevated insulin levels aren’t just a road to diabetes; they’re a one-way ticket to cancer town. Your body becomes less effective at using insulin, and high circulating insulin levels can promote the growth of tumors.
While we’re on the topic, let’s talk inflammation. When you’re sedentary, your body’s inflammatory response goes a bit haywire. Chronic inflammation isn’t just an irritant; it’s a catalyst for several forms of cancer, colorectal included. The connection here is as clear as a bell, yet often overlooked. (3)
