An estimate of up to one-third of the cancer cases, occurring in economically developed countries such as the US, are linked to overweight, obesity, physical inactivity, and poor nutrition. (American Cancer Association, 2015)
Did you know that according to experts, 80-90% of cancer is “environmental” and can be prevented? Stories from the common media seem to place the emphasis of the major cancer factors being food additives, pollution, radiation, and pesticides. Although these factors may promote cancer, it turns out that these issues are much lower on the “cancer experts’ lists” than the basic habitual dietary choices. (Dr. Nedley, Proof Positive)
It’s important to remember that diseases such as cancer are usually caused by the combined effects of many carcinogens and not just a single one. Though you may not be able to stay away from all carcinogens, by avoiding them as much as possible helps to a great degree in preventing cancer. By applying the 8 laws of health (NEWSTART), cancer can largely be prevented.
Nutrition – Making sure we are having the necessary levels of vitamins, antioxidants, minerals, proteins, fiber, etc. is crucial to help prevent diseases such as cancer. It is stated that 35-60% of all cancer deaths in the US may be simply due to poor eating habits (Dr. Nedley, Proof Positive).
Exercise – Studies have shown that exercise greatly boosts the immune system and reduces cancer risk. Exercising also has the ability to modulate hormonal mechanisms.
Water – Water functions in washing out toxins and wastes from our body, enabling proper cell function, and supporting DNA structure.
Sunlight – Having sunlight in moderate amounts is healthful, and may even be beneficial in cancer prevention (including skin cancer, leukemia, lymphoma, and colon cancer). Sunlight is crucial in the production of Vitamin D in the body, which helps prevent certain types of cancers.
Temperance – It’s important to remember, “total abstinence from substances that are harmful and moderate use of substances that are helpful.” Too much of even healthy substances can cause disease such as the following: protein, sunlight, sugar, fat.
Air – Avoiding breathing contaminated air (smoking) helps prevent the development of lung cancer.
Rest – Having the necessary amount of 7-8 hrs of sleep is important in maintaining a healthy immune system. More important than how long you sleep is how well you sleep to obtain physical and mental rejuvenation. Quality sleep is significantly improved by going to bed before midnight. It is stated that 2 hrs before midnight equals 4 hrs after midnight.
Trust – Excess and unrelieved stress can cause our body to weaken and become susceptible to disease. Sometimes, we are faced with unfavorable circumstances and situations that cannot be controlled. Instead of allowing ourselves to worry ourselves sick, placing our trust in God to take care of the situation would spare us from needless stress.
Lastly, you may have heard the saying, “cancer is in the genes and there’s nothing that can be done about it.” In reality, faulty genes are what load the gun, but lifestyle is what really pulls the trigger!
References: American Cancer Society. Cancer Facts & Figures 2015. Retrieved from http://www.cancer.org/ acs/groups/content/@editorial/documents/document/acspc-044552.pdf Chaplin, M. (2015).
Nucleic Acid Hydration. Retrieved from http://www1.lsbu.ac.uk/water/ nucleic_acid_hydration.html Nedley, N. (1999).
Good News About Cancer & Beyond the Leading Causes of Death. D. DeRose (Ed.), Proof Positive: How to Reliably Combat Disease and Achieve Optimal Health through Nutrition and Lifestyle. Ardmore, OK: Quality Books, Inc.
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