Better ways to prevent cancer

Cancer! The word alone is enough to send shivers down one’s spine. It seems to come out of nowhere, and when it strikes, it can be deadly. Fortunately, there are steps we can take to minimise our exposure to some of the most common chemicals that are linked to cancer.

Eat organic food: It makes sense that foods treated with toxic pesticides and herbicides could cause more cancer than foods that are organically grown. And that’s exactly what research done by Newcastle University in the UK has shown. In fact, organic food actually contains compounds called antioxidants that fight cancer in people. Growing food organically is good for the planet, too, as it protects birds, bees and other wildlife while helping to protect streams, lakes and rivers.

Eat less meat, more vegetables and fruits: According to Harvard Medical School, “studies from around the world have suggested that a high consumption of meat is linked to an increased risk of colon cancer.” But eating less meat is not only better for people, it really helps the environment, too. Raising cows for beef production takes an enormous toll on water and land resources and can be extremely inhumane to the animals. Plus, the millions of cows on the planet emit methane, a potent greenhouse gas. Raising fewer cows would help protect ground water and reduce global warming.

Take a hike: “There is strong evidence that physical activity is associated with reduced risk of cancers of the colon and breast … as well as endometrial, lung and prostate cancers,” says the National Cancer Institute. Plus, walking and other forms of exercise are great ways to reduce air pollution and lower emissions of carbon dioxide that results when cars burn gasoline.

Don’t smoke: About 160,000 people will die from lung cancer in 2015, and the risk is much higher for smokers than non-smokers.

Tweet