The Top 5 Ways to Reduce Cancer Risk

Wednesday, November 21, 2012
Do you know someone with cancer? Perhaps you are suffering from cancer? There is no doubt that it is a very terrifying situation to be faced with. Billions of dollars have been spent on researcher on looking for a cure, yet none has been discovered yet.

The good news is that certain types of cancer can be prevented by following some common-sense tips and making some lifestyle changes. This has been shown in population studies, research done by comparing very large group of people living in different parts of the world.

This article will provide details on five things you can do to dramatically cut down your risk of cancer.

#1 - What You Eat Matters

Scientists don't want to make a strong statement that what you choose to eat could affect your risk of cancer. But your mom was right all along. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables have been shown in studies to reduce the risk of certain types of cancer. These foods are very rich in vitamins, minerals, enzymes and potent anti-oxidants that can slow down and eliminate cancerous cells.

Citrus fruits such as lemon and oranges contain bioflavonoids and limonoids that have been shown in lab and animal studies to cause cancerous cells to die in 48 hours.

As well, experts do recommend that you reduce the amount of meat that you consume. Also throw in whole grain foods as well. And don't forget the healing properties of green tea. Some studies have shown that drinking three cups of green tea cuts down the risk of breast cancer. The reason? Green tea contains potent anti-oxidants that deactivate harmful oxygen free radicals. Also, green tea contains many other active substances that seem to promote health and well-being.

Avoid dehydration by drinking 8 glasses of water daily. It may help to lower your cancer risk by allowing your own body the ability to flush away toxic substances.

#2 - Exercise and Physical Activity

Some studies show that being overweight increases your chance of developing many types of cancer. Exercise is not fun for most people, so start by choosing mild and somewhat easy exercises. For example, if you have never exercised before, don't bother going to the gym as the first step. Start by taking 15 to 30 minutes brisk walk around your neighbourhood. Do this three times weekly.

To ensure that you continue with your exercise program, schedule it in! Just like going to work, you don't find time to go to work. By scheduling a small block of time for a quick 15 to 30 minutes walk, you are more likely to continue on.

There is good evidence to show that highly successful and effective people exercise regularly.

#3 - Avoid Toxins

In two words, don't smoke. Also don't expose yourself to second hand smoke. Studies show that it is just as harmful. When tobacco is burnt, it produces thousands of toxic chemicals, many of which are proven to cause cancer. And it's not just lung cancer. Smoking is linked to cervical, kidney and bladder cancer.

Studies have shown that a glass of wine is good for you but too much alcohol is linked to various types of cancer. Excessive alcohol consumption is linked to colon, liver, esophagus and throat cancer.

For females with a family history of breast cancer, alcohol consumption seems to further increase the risk. Experts suggest this group of female to refrain from drinking alcohol.

#4 - Cut Down on Sun Exposure

Skin cancer risk can be greatly reduced by avoiding excessive sun exposure. The golden tanned look can be attractive but there is a price to pay. Not only is it going to increase skin cancer risk, it also ages the skin quickly. At a later time, your skin becomes wrinkled permanently.

Avoid tanning beds and always put on a sunscreen before going out on a sunny day.

Why not get two benefits from staying away from the sun? Benefit from a lowered skin cancer risk and a healthier younger looking skin.

#5 - Natural Remedies, Vitamins and Herbal Supplements

Many vitamins, minerals and herbal remedies are used around the world to prevent cancer. For example, vitamin D seems to reduce the risk of all types of cancer. As for prostate cancer, some studies show that selenium can cut the risk down.

Supplements are an excellent choice since many of them are very low cost. Moreover, many of the recommended vitamins and minerals are already found in your daily multivitamin that you take.

Start today. Take the necessary first step in preventing cancer. This you can control and you will benefit from this smart move for a lifetime.

By: → Tom Chua