Every so often, another report is released that warns people that if they eat a certain type of food, they are putting themselves at an increased risk for cancer at some point in their lifetime.
This can be scary and intimidating for High Desert residents who simply want to get the best nourishment for themselves and for their family. Apple Valley residents will find these tips beneficial as they try to create meal plans that are healthy, delicious, and nutritious while also helping them prevent cancer later in life.
How Can I Enjoy an Anti-Cancer Diet?
Eat fruits and vegetables — whether they are organic or non organic. Plant foods are filled with vitamins, nutrients and antioxidants. These are the components that we need to grow and live healthy lives.
Antioxidants are important in particular, because they help to restore the DNA in the human body and fight off free radicals that can be produced by other processed foods that we enjoy on a regular basis.
While many people today feel that organic fruits and vegetables are best because they do not contain pesticide residue, there is no direct link between organic produce and cancer prevention. Experts recommend that people eat the fruits and vegetables that they can afford in order to get the nutrients that they need.
Increase your physical activity. Researchers are finding that people who are physically active are less likely to be diagnosed with cancer for many different reasons. You don’t have to start running marathons in order to prevent cancer in the future. Simply choose a physical activity that you enjoy — such as riding a bike or taking a yoga class — and do that activity at least 30 minutes each day.
Maintain a healthy body weight. Excessive body fat can put a person at risk for several types of cancers, including breast cancer, colon cancer, kidney cancer and cancer of the esophagus. People who are considered overweight should make a conscious effort to try to safely lose a few pounds and maintain their goal body weight.
Choose lean protein and limit the amount of red meat that you eat on a regular basis. Red meat has been linked to colon cancer, but that doesn’t mean you can never have a steak again. Avoid consuming too much red meat. Experts recommend 18 ounces or less per week.
If you are concerned that your dietary choices might have an impact on your general health later in life, or that you might be predisposing yourself to certain types of cancer, be sure to talk about your habits with your general surgeon.
Medical professionals can help analyze your diet and provide you with reassurance about what you should and should not be consuming on a regular basis. Remember that in most situations, moderation is the best rule to live by. Enjoying something once in a while is not going to guarantee you a cancer diagnosis. Eat well and exercise often, and you are giving yourself the best chance of enjoying a long, happy and cancer-free life.
