Even though we’re almost into 2024, cancer remains one of the leading causes of death in the US. This cunning disease can remain silent for years and erupt like a violent volcano to ruin your health when you expect the least.
Although there are no cures for cancer, there are treatments that could cure the patient. Another good news is that humanity knows a lot more about cancer now than it did decades ago, not to mention centuries ago.
Although there’s no guaranteed method to prevent the emergence of cancer entirely, adopting a certain lifestyle can significantly reduce the risk of dealing with the disease. Let’s check out a list of some proven strategies to safeguard against cancer:
Rely on fruits and vegetables
Getting a variety of fruits and vegetables on your plate is a ‘must’ to stay healthy over the years, and such a combination could even be a winning recipe against cancer. Such foods are nutritional powerhouses, as they are rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals.
Quit smoking
You may have found out by now that smoking isn’t healthy, and furthermore, it assures you a bad breath that will chase away the ladies. Smoking is one of the leading causes of certain types of cancer, including lung cancer.
If you’re a smoker and you wish to quit but can’t have enough motivation, you can feel free to seek support.
Don’t exaggerate with the drinks
While nobody says that it’s a bad idea to have a toast once in a blue moon, being the lord of the drinks is certainly a bad idea if you care about your health. Such behavior has been linked to an elevated risk of certain types of cancer.
Stay active
Regular physical activity is also a strong ally when it comes to the fight against cancer. You need to aim for a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week. Anything will do, from jogging, brisk walking, dancing, and so on.
Sun safety
If you go to the beach where the sun is stronger than usual, it’s important to use sunscreen to protect your skin from harmful UV rays. You can also wear protective clothing and seek shade during peak sunlight hours. By doing these actions, you could stay safe from skin cancer.
Choose whole grains
You need to opt for whole grains, such as whole wheat, quinoa, and rice, over refined grains. Whole grains contain the right amounts of vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants.
Limit red and processed meats
There’s some evidence out there that high consumption of red and processed meats has been linked to a higher risk of colorectal cancer. You should balance your diet with lean proteins such as fish, poultry, and plant-based alternatives.
Consider your family history
It’s important to consider your family history, as some cancers may have a hereditary component. You will have to share this information with your healthcare provider, who can provide you the right guidance for a personalized risk assessment and preventive measures.
Screenings and regular health check-ups:
When it comes to a successful cancer treatment, early detection is crucial. Therefore, it’s important to schedule routine health check-ups and screenings as your healthcare provider recommends.
We all need to keep in mind that small and consistent changes can have a major impact on our health.
