health developments
Beyond the Plate: Other Lifestyle Factors That May Help Prevent Cancer
Cancer is a complex disease that can be influenced by various lifestyle factors. While diet is a crucial factor in cancer prevention, there are other lifestyle choices that can also play a significant role in reducing cancer risk. In this article, we will explore other lifestyle factors beyond diet that may help prevent cancer.
Regular exercise has been shown to reduce the risk of various types of cancer, including breast, colon, and lung cancer.
Exercise can help to lower inflammation in the body, boost immune function, and reduce insulin resistance, all of which can help to prevent cancer.
The American Cancer Society recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week.
Examples of moderate-intensity exercise include brisk walking, cycling, and swimming, while vigorous-intensity exercise includes running, high-intensity interval training, and aerobic dance.
Maintaining a Healthy Weight
Being overweight or obese is a significant risk factor for several types of cancer, including breast, colon, and kidney cancer.
This is because excess body fat can increase inflammation in the body, alter hormone levels, and promote the growth of cancer cells.
Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise is crucial for cancer prevention. The American Cancer Society recommends a body mass index (BMI) of 18.5-24.9 for adults.
Avoiding Tobacco Products
Smoking and using other tobacco products is a leading cause of cancer, with an estimated 1 in 3 cancer deaths in the United States being attributed to tobacco use. Smoking is a known risk factor for several types of cancer, including lung, throat, and bladder cancer.
Quitting smoking or never starting in the first place is one of the most effective ways to reduce cancer risk. The American Cancer Society offers resources and support to help individuals quit smoking.
Limiting Alcohol Consumption
Excessive alcohol consumption is a known risk factor for several types of cancer, including breast, colon, and liver cancer. The American Cancer Society recommends limiting alcohol consumption to one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men.
Protecting Against UV Rays
Exposure to UV rays from the sun and tanning beds is a significant risk factor for skin cancer, the most common type of cancer in the United States. To protect against UV rays, it is recommended to seek shade, wear protective clothing, and use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.
Getting Screened for Cancer
Regular cancer screenings can help to detect cancer early when it is most treatable. The American Cancer Society recommends regular screenings for breast, colon, cervical, lung, and prostate cancer, depending on age and other risk factors.
While diet plays a crucial role in cancer prevention, other lifestyle factors also play a significant role. Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding tobacco products, limiting alcohol consumption, protecting against UV rays, and getting screened for cancer are all important steps in reducing cancer risk.
Incorporating these lifestyle choices into your daily routine can help to promote overall health and reduce the risk of cancer.
