Colon cancer surgery is a major medical procedure. After an individual has colon cancer surgery there are several diet options that can prevent the colon cancer from reoccurring. One of the biggest contributing factors to colon cancer is dietary fat. A diet that has a high fat consumption greatly increases the amount of bile acids that are released into the digestive tract. Once bile acids have entered the colon the acids can actually turn into secondary bile acids. These secondary bile acids can promote the growth of a tumor in the colon. It is very important that after colon cancer surgery, to prevent the cancer from reoccurring, to eat a diet that is low in fat.

Another great way to prevent colon cancer is to eat a diet that is rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants are praised as an important substance in fighting colorectal cancer and other cancers of the body. Antioxidants give the body's immune system a boost that acts as a defensive line against harmful free radicals.

Foods that are rich in antioxidants are vegetables and fruits. Even some types of tea are rich in antioxidants. Two very important antioxidants are selenium and beta-carotene. These two antioxidants are responsible for helping the body repair the damage caused by dangerous free radicals. Doctors recommend that an individual eat foods that are rich in antioxidants instead of taking a supplement.

Folic acid, calcium and vitamin D are both valuable resources in the fight against rectal cancer. Folic acid helps to form new tissues and cells in the body. Plus folic acid is in charge of keeping the red blood cells healthy. Foods that are rich in folic acid are dark leafy green vegetables and citrus fruits. Recent studies have proven that both calcium and vitamin D play a big part in fighting off colon cancer. It is important to eat foods such as yogurt, cheese, milk, sardines, salmon, mustard and dark green leafy vegetables.

After colorectal cancer surgery an individual should pay attention to their fiber intake. Fiber is believed to improve the health of an individual by moving waste through the digestive tract at a faster speed. There are many foods that are good sources of fiber. Some of these foods are berries, prunes, whole grain cereals, fresh fruits, vegetables, brown rice and beans.

When following a special diet after rectal cancer surgery, make sure to choose foods to eat that come from natural plant sources. Also, limit the intake of high-fat foods. Many high-fat foods come from animal sources. Make sure to exercise on a regular basis in order to maintain a healthy weight. After colon cancer surgery it is in an individual's best interest to limit the consumption of alcoholic beverages. All of these suggestions can help in the fight against colon cancer.