Despite the fact that Americans have better access to healthcare than ever now, the numbers about cancer remain grim:
50% of men and 30% of women will be affected at one point in their lifetimes by this disease. There will be 1.6 million new cancer cases diagnosed this year and1,600 Americans die from cancer every day
With statistics like that, it is no wonder why cancer is a worry for those who are trying to live a long and healthy life.
There are, however, ways in which the average person can help to reduce their risk of developing cancer. Some of the best ways to accomplish this are discussed below.
Reduce Sugar Intake
This not only helps to reduce obesity and other risk factors for cancer, it helps to cut cancer off from the sugary environment they thrive on within the human body.
Increase Vegetable Intake in the Diet
Vegetables like leafy greens, broccoli and tomatoes are all rich in antioxidants and phytochemicals which have been shown to be able to protect against cancer cell development.
Eat more Berries
Blackberries, blueberries, cranberries and cherries all owe their dark, rich colors to chemicals called anthocyanins which have also been shown to cut cancer risk.
Quite Smoking
Smoking remains the leading cause of lung cancer and can contribute to cancer of the bladder and other cancers as well. Get help to quit the habit and reduce the risk of cancer development.
Cut Back on Conventional Meat and Dairy
Consumption of conventionally raised meat and dairy products increases levels of IGF, a hormone associated with cancer cell proliferation. Reduce consumption and go for organic meat and dairy instead.
Reduce Environmental Exposure
Reduce exposure to cancer-causing toxins in the home by getting rid of plastic bottles and containers as well as nonstick cookware and treating pests naturally instead of with dangerous chemicals.
Go Organic
Eating organic as much as the budget allows is a great way to reducing exposure to pesticides and herbicides, many of which contain known carcinogens.
Decrease Estrogen Levels
Reducing consumption of soy products and breastfeeding after childbirth are great ways to keep estrogen in check; excess levels have also been associated with some forms of cancer.
Maintain a Healthy Body Weight
Eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly can help maintain a healthy body weight, which lowers the risk of many different type of cancer.
Supplement
Supplementing with certain herbs and vitamins such as Vitamin D, maca or garlic can help improve overall health and also reduce cancer risk.
In short, these ten simple tips can all help to lower the risk for cancer development and contribute to the overall health and longevity of the body. What’s more, they are all within the individual’s power to accomplish and can empower people to take control of their lives and their health.
Sources: preventcancer.org, everydayhealth.com, prevention.com
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