Natural Health Alternatives Blog

Cancer Prevention

Cancer is a malignancy of cells also referred to as abnormal growth of cells. There are more than a 100 types of cancers with varying symptoms and treatments. Cancer is not just due to our genetics or environmental factors, but also a product of our lifestyle and dietary choices, which can be amended to prevent cancer. Making the body resistant to cancer can help you and your loved ones stay clear of this disease. Here are some cancer prevention tips:

1. Physical Activity

   Exercising regularly can make a world of difference and has been linked by researches to reduce the chance of colon cancer as well as prostate cancer. In women, exercise is believed to reduce the risk of breast cancer and some reproductive cancers. Even if you don’t aim to lose weight, physical activity will still benefit you.

2. Avoid Tobacco

   You don’t have to be a scientist to understand the adverse effects of tobacco. Avoid tobacco and its derived products at all costs and minimise and avoid exposure to second hand smoke too.

3. Eating a Healthy Diet

   Most of us are guilty to having too many steaks and processed food. Although they look delicious, it doesn’t mean they are good for you. Processed food, saturated fats and red meat should be avoided and if it cannot be helped their consumption must be minimised. Deep-fried and char-broiled food are also linked with maximising eh risk for cancer. Instead, opt for healthy dietary habits, which include consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, fish and lean meats, which can reduce your risk of colon cancer, prostate cancer and heart disease.

4. Lose Weight

   If you have a few extra pounds piled on, it’s time to consider losing them. Obesity increases the risk of cancer. Calories matter a lot, so stay within your calorie limit for the day and try burning some with exercise.

5. Limit Alcohol Consumption

   If you choose to drink limit your alcohol consumption to no more than two glasses a day, as alcohol increases the risk of cancer of the larynx, mouth, liver, colon and oesophagus and breast.

6. Limit Radiation Exposure

   It is advisable to undergo medical imaging tests only when it is absolutely necessary. Check your home for any residential radon and protect your skin from ultraviolet radiation as sunlight can cause skin cancer and melanomas. However, electromagnetic radiation from cell phones, high-voltage power lines and microwaves don’t cause cancer.

7. Avoid Cancer-Causing Infections

   Hepatitis virus, human papillomavirus and HIV are some of the infections that contribute in causing cancer. Some are sexually transmitted while others can be carried into the blood stream through contaminated needs.

8. Avoid Environmental and Industrial Toxins

   Toxins such as benzene, asbestos fibers, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and aromatic amines are linked with cancer. Limit exposure to them at all costs for cancer prevention.

9. Opt For Low-Dose Aspirin

   Men who habitually take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and aspirin have a decreased chance of prostate and colon cancer. Even in low doses aspirin can cause gastric bleeding. The good news is, low dose aspirin can protect men from heart attacks and strokes. It is advisable to limit its intake and taking low doses when absolutely necessary.

10. Understand the Importance of Vitamin D

    According to experts, 800-1000 IU daily of vitamin D can reduce the risk of cancer. Although it is impossible to get such high amounts from your daily diet, supplements are easily available in the market. 

These lifestyle and dietary changes can help you prevent cancer and develop cancer resistance in your body by boosting your immune system and staying healthy.