Lower your cancer risk
Monday 13 October 2008
With statistics telling us that cancer is still the UK's number one killer and that one in three of us will be affected by the disease at some point in their life, it's hard not to be worried about your and your family's health.
And although we cannot predict what the future holds for each of us, there are things you can do to lower the risk of developing cancer.
Closer has compiled a a few tips for you to incorporate into your daily life, to make sure you are protected as well as you can be.
* Consume as many fruits and vegetables as possible. Foods that are said to be very effective are broccoli, cabbage, brussels sprouts, cauliflower, carrots, tomatoes, kale , spinach, citrus fruits, berries and cherries.
* Maintain a healthy weight throughout your life - a BMI of less than 25 is ideal. You should also aim to exercise regularly. Studies have shown that 30 minutes or more of aerobic activity can provide powerful protection against breast cancer.
* Cut back on your intake of red meats. Those who eat meats, specifically beef, more than four times a week will be more at risk of developing breast cancer.
* Studies show those who drink more than the recommended daily allowance of alcohol will have be at greater risk to develop breast cancer as the alcohol decreases the body’s ability to use folic acid, a vitamin associated with cancer prevention.
* Keep positive and develop good relationships with family and friends. Make sure you get adequate sleep too, ideally 8 hours per night. The wellbeing of body and mind have powerful associations with breast cancer.
For more information about all types of cancer, including breast cancer, follow the links below:
www.breastcancer.org
www.breastcancercare.org.uk
www.breaktrough.org.uk/
www.cancerresearchuk.org
www.macmillan.org.uk