Simple Everyday Ways to Reduce Cancer Risk
By Sandy Schroeder
Almost 40 percent of us will be diagnosed with cancer at some point in our lives. We may eat healthy and exercise, but still feel vulnerable.
EasyHealthOptions and NaturalLivingIdeas suggest some simple ways to cut cancer risk.
Avoid scented candles and air fresheners - Studies show many are packed with formaldehyde, which is a major cancer risk. Formaldehyde can also be found in plywood, pressed wood particle board and some insulation materials in the home.
Drink moderately or not at all - Alcohol links to an increased risk of breast, esophagus, colorectal, liver and head and neck cancer. The body takes the ethanol in a drink and converts it to acetaldehyde, which can damage the liver and slow down the body’s ability to get rid of harmful chemicals.
Beware of smoky foods from the grill - Blackened fish, chicken and steaks often show up on our barbecue grills, but researchers say they put us at risk for colon, stomach and pancreatic cancer. Grilling becomes dangerous as fat drips from the food and burns to create the smoky flavors we love. Unfortunately, carcinogenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are also created.
Give up microwave popcorn - The waxy coating in the popcorn bags generates a perfluorinated acid that has been found to be a carcinogen in liver and prostate cancer. Skip the convenience and airpop or cook popcorn the old-fashioned way on the stove.
Avoid nonstick cookware - The pan that lets you cook without food sticking can also be hazardous to your health. Most non-stick pans use the same family of toxic chemicals as coated popcorn bags. Perfluorochemicals can cause testicular, kidney and thyroid cancers.
Pick the right sunscreen - The Food and Drug Administration says sunscreens that contain retinyl palmitate may harm skin cells and cause cancer. Some sunscreens also include oxybenzone which can alter hormones. Carefully read the sunscreen labels and pitch any that have toxic ingredients. The ones with zinc oxide may still be the best to provide safe broad-spectrum protection.
Cancer Risk Overview
We all need to do the homework to reduce cancer risk every day. Read the ingredients and reviews for new products. At the same time be aware that the following issues can put you at greater risk for cancer, and many other serious diseases.
- Tobacco in any form
- Poor diets that lack fruit, vegetables, lean protein and healthy oils
- Extra pounds, especially those carried in abdominal fat
- Lack of physical activity with extended sitting
- Unprotected sun exposure
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Brea, Calif.