Everyday Tips To Reduce your Cancer Risk

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and with breast cancer being the most common cancer diagnosis in women, it can be really important to incorporate prevention and wellness tips into our everyday lives.
Whilst scientific study has shown that breast cancer has a genetic element, keeping a healthy lifestyle and environment can play a crucial role in prevention and general wellbeing. From nutrition to stress levels, our bodies are extremely sensitive to change and forming healthy habits can do us the world of good.

Although it seems glaringly obvious, one of the easiest things we can all do to promote our wellness and prevent cancer is by keeping a healthy diet. Sugary foods and processed carbohydrates spike insulin levels and increase inflammation in the body, both of which can be detrimental to health over extended periods of time.

It is best if your meal plates are as naturally colourful as possible! Leafy greens and bright fruits are positively packed with the vitamins and minerals that are essential for good health.

It’s become increasingly clear that plastic is problematic. Not only does it pollute the planet, but it can also pollute your body when used incorrectly. When using plastic drink bottles, you should always check to make sure they are free from BPA. In addition, you should avoid heating plastic containers, as the plastic particles can dissolve into your food and drink. Unless your container specifically says it is microwave or dishwasher safe, you should always opt for glass or ceramic dishes.

Whilst the majority of cosmetic products are completely safe to use, it is always good to check the ingredients list for any unknown chemicals or nasties. Your skin will absorb any chemicals you put on it, so it is always important to know what you’re using.

In fact, there are so many completely natural beauty products around nowadays that it may be worth swapping out your old products for new, all natural ones when they run out.

Do you really need a zillion different cleaning products? Not only are the bottles almost always non-recyclable plastic, but the chemicals you’re exposed to just really aren’t good for you. Try and swap your usual brands for natural brands or have a go at making your own cleaning products! You can use baking soda and vinegar as a serious deep cleaning agent, as well as using essential oils to get a lovely scent.

Okay okay, we know this one can be tricky… and whilst contact with phones and laptops hasn’t been proven to be bad for you, we all know they are necessarily good for you, either!

Our electronic devices emit small amounts of EMF radiation and there are possible links to high EMF exposure and cancer. Whilst we’re definitely not saying to say goodbye to your screens all-together, it may be good to limit your usage.

Besides, screen time has been proven to affect concentration, sleep and your mental health. So, it may be best to shut off your screens an hour or two before bed and have a few hours in the day with zero screens. Instead, take a walk or go to the gym- or read a book if you want to wind down.

Again, another obvious one but we feel like we need to emphasis it anyway. Exercise is incredibly good for you. Alongside keeping your heart healthy, preventing disease, and reducing the risk of all cancers, exercise can work miracles on your mood and mental health.

Simply put, humans were not designed to sit down all day. So, for at least 30 minutes a day, try and get your body moving! Whether it’s a brisk walk, a jog, a gym class or simply dancing like crazy- your mind and body will thank you for it.

Stress can wreak havoc on our bodies. Prolonged periods of intense stress can actually weaken your immune system, putting you at risk of infections and increasing the possibility of getting serious diseases and cancer.

To combat your stress, make sure you are dedicating time to wind down, every day. Whether this is a long walk, a meditation session, reading or simply having a hot bath. Giving your body and mind time to wind down and de-stress and be marvellously beneficial for your health and wellness.

Alongside keeping up a healthy diet and exercise routine, it is also vital that we are all making
healthy habits and avoiding unhealthy ones.

It goes without saying that smoking is incredibly bad for your health. It has been proven to increase
your risk of cancer (significantly) and can cause a myriad of other problems in your cardiovascular
system.

Cutting down on high-sugar foods as well as red meat consumption can also have countless health
benefits.

Keeping a healthy weight, cutting down on alcohol consumption and staying safe in the sun are also
good, healthy habits to make and keep.

In all, these healthy living tips won’t just decrease your chance of getting cancer, but they will
increase your quality of life. Modern life is hectic, and it can be really easy to forget how to properly
take care of ourselves. However, keeping these healthy tips active within your everyday routines will
definitely serve you well, and leave you feeling happier and healthier..