What causes polyps in the colon?

Colon polyps develop from a wide variety of factors. Part, of course is genetic and has to do with our ability to repair local genetic mutations. These mutations (locally in the lining of the gut) lead to polyps. Everyone has these mutations all the time. Polyps, then, sometimes grow into cancers. Beyond genetics, diets low in fiber, high in meat (nitrosamines), low in antioxidants, low in calcium, and low in selenium and other trace vitamins and minerals, are predisposed to grow polyps. The propensity to grow polyps might be started younger in life.

We think the major cause of polyp formation is genetic. After that, eating high fiber and the smallest amount of red meat can protect the colon from polyp formation.