Diet Affects Cancer

Can Your Diet Impact Cancer?

Cancer can affect anyone at any time. There seems to be little logic as to who develops cancer and when. But, over the years, we have learned that there are certain things to avoid and indulge in that can affect your risk of developing certain cancers. For example, it is common knowledge that smoking greatly increases your risk of lung cancer, and not smoking keeps your lung cancer risk reasonably low. Your diet might also have a substantial effect on your risk of developing cancer.

 

Controlling Your Diet May Affect Your Risk of Developing Some Cancers

Some factors contribute to cancer that are beyond our control. Genetics and environmental dangers, for instance, cause many cancers. Recent studies suggest, however, that particular foods might help lower your risk of getting certain forms of cancer. Alternatively, some foods can increase your risk. Food preparation can also have an impact on cancer.

The American Cancer Society designates February as Cancer Prevention Month. What better time to think about making a small change in your eating habits that might have a significant impact on your health?

 

What Foods Can Impact Your Cancer Risk?

Helpguide is an online “guide to mental health and wellness.” Helpguide suggests readers consider the following foods to consume and avoid to minimize the risks of getting cancer.

Foods to Eat:

• Foods with Antioxidants
• Fruits
• Vegetables
• Fiber
• Healthy Fats
• Organic, local foods

Foods to Avoid or Limit:

• Sugar
• Refined Carbohydrates
• Processed meat
• GMO foods
• Alcohol

The foods above might impact inflammation, hormone levels, cellular development, and other things that can affect the development of cancer.

 

The Impact of Food Preparation on Cancer

Helpguide also offers suggested tips for eating and preparing your foods in ways that limit exposure to possible carcinogens, therefore, reducing your cancer risk.

Some examples include:

• Washing your fruit and vegetables thoroughly to remove pesticides
• Eating at least some of your fruits and vegetable raw
• When cooking vegetables steam them lightly to avoid losing nutritional benefits
• Avoid cooking foods with oil that is heated to high temperatures
• Avoid charring meats and other foods on the grill
• When microwaving, always use microwave-safe containers

 

Healthy Lifestyle Choices May Reduce Your Risk of Cancer

Maintaining a healthy weight and getting regular exercise might also help lower your risk of developing certain cancers. Speaking with your doctor about what is best for you and your lifestyle is an important part of staying healthy.

 

When Someone You Love Has Cancer, You Can Help by Sending a Healthy Gift From Rock The Treatment

Unfortunately, controlling cancer is not always possible. If someone you know has cancer and is undergoing treatment, you can help them in many ways. Studies show that even small gestures can have tremendous benefits for the mental and physical well-being of cancer patients.

Call Rock The Treatment if you want to send a gift to someone with cancer. Our healthy, personalized gift boxes contain items to help your friend or family member find some relief from the physical and emotional stress that cancer treatment causes.

Visit rockthetreatment.com or call us at 516-690-7009 for more information about our chemo baskets and radiation baskets.

 

Source:

• https://www.helpguide.org/articles/diets/cancer-prevention-diet.htm