April Is Cancer Awareness Month
Did you know that about 1/3 of all cancers can be prevented?
There is no single food, diet or activity that can prevent cancer – it is more about your overall lifestyle. The following are some ways in which you can help reduce your risk of developing cancer:
- stay at a healthy body weight – this may be one of the most important ways you can protect yourself from developing cancer
- eat a healthy diet – include lots of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes; limit your intake of saturated fat, trans fats and sugar
- reduce your intake of red meat and processed meats
- If you drink alcohol, drink no more than: 10 drinks a week for women, and 15 drinks a week for men
- exercise regularly – aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity every day
- if you smoke, quit
- protect your eyes and skin by wearing sunglasses and sunscreen
Research has found links between the following foods and Cancer risk:
Plant foods (vegetables, fruit, whole grains and legumes). Plant foods contain phytochemicals, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and fibre that may help lower your risk of cancer.
Garlic and other allium vegetables (onions, chives, leeks, scallions). These foods may protect against stomach cancer, as they help limit bacteria that may cause stomach cancer, and prevent cancer cells from growing. They also contain high amounts of cancer fighting sulphur compounds.
Tea. Some research shows that tea (particularly green tea) may help protect against cancer because it contains antioxidants; however, more research is needed.
Red Meat and Processed Meat. A high intake of red meat and processed meat can increase the risk of colorectal cancer. Many processed meats also contain food additives such as nitrates that may promote cancer growth.
Vitamin D. Some research shows that vitamin D may help lower overall cancer risk; however, more research is needed to determine how.
https://www.cancer.ca/en/prevention-and-screening/live-well/nutrition-and-fitness/?region=pehttp://www.eatrightontario.ca/en/Articles/Cancer/Lowering-your-risk-of-cancer-What-about-specific.aspx
