10 ways to avoid cancer

In yesterday’s post we looked at nurturing the good in your life rather than just focusing on the problems. If you’re after ideas for nurturing good health, then look no further than this week’s New Scientist magazine.

It reports on the very latest findings from the World Cancer Research Fund and the American Institute for Cancer Research, which have been distilled into 10 ways to avoid cancer. It seems these are 10 life changes that could have a real pay-off in terms of reducing the risk of both cancer and heart-disease.

If you find yourself ruminating unproductively on your health concerns then you might like to make a start with just one item from the list.

10 ways to avoid cancer

1. Body Fat
Aim for a body mass index (BMI) of 21 to 23, and avoid weight gain during adulthood.

2. Physical Activity
Aim for 30 to 60 minutes of moderate physical activity, like brisk walking, every day.

3. Junk Food
Avoid sugary drinks and energy-dense fast food.

4. Meat
Eat no more than 500 grams of red meat per week and avoid processed meats.

5. Alcohol
Limit daily intake to one drink for women, two drinks for men. Do not binge drink.

6. Fruit and Vegetables
Eat five portions of non-starchy vegetables each day and limit refined starchy food.

7. Preservatives
Avoid salt-preserved foods. Limit salt intake to 6 grams per day.

8. Dietary Supplements
Avoid them, except in special cases such as folic acid during pregnancy.

9. Breastfeeding
Try to breastfeed for six months.

10. Cancer survivors
Seek professional nutritional advice.

Source: Obesity increases the risk of cancer, by Collin Barras and Linda Geddes. NewScientist.com news service, 31 October 2007.

They’re not all easy – especially breastfeeding if you’re a guy or don’t have a baby.

But focusing on making one change each month could drastically alter your health profile within a year.

By Michele Connolly

Choose to be happier – and you will be.

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