PREVENT CANCER STARTING TODAY
Along with not using tobacco products, our daily choices can make a very big difference in the long run. Here’s an overview of the updated ACS guidelines to help you adjust your lifestyle as needed.
The American Cancer Society (ACS) has updated its guidelines on diet and physical activity for cancer prevention, and your patients can start applying its recommendations right away. Here’s a few to share with them.
The ACS states that “Cancer is the second leading cause of death in both men and women in the United states behind only heart disease.” We encourage you to take action in protecting yourself and your loved ones with the summarized recommendations in this article and in the full report here.
According to the ACS, at least 18% of all cancer cases in the US are related to excess body weight, physical inactivity, excess alcohol consumption, and/or poor nutrition.
According to the ACS, at least 18% of all
cancer cases in the US are related to
excess body weight, physical inactivity,
excess alcohol consumption, and/or poor
nutrition.
Stay at a Healthy Weight
Keep your weight within a healthy range and avoid gaining weight as an adult. Obesity is linked to several types of cancer. Being overweight or obese is largely due to consuming too many calories and not burning enough of them.
Stay Active Throughout Life
The ACS recommends 150-300 minutes of moderate intensity or 75-150 minutes of vigorous intensity activity (and suggests that exceeding the 300 minutes is ideal). Children and teenagers should get at least 1 hour of moderate or vigorous intensity activity each day. If you’re not used to this level of activity, the amount and intensity of activity can be increased slowly over time.
Following a Healthy Eating Pattern
Eat foods that are high in nutrients, a variety of vegetables (dark green, red and orange), fiber-rich legumes (beans and peas), fruits in a variety of colors and whole grains. Plus, limit or avoid processed meats, added sugar like in sugar-sweetened beverages, and highly processed foods and refined grain products.
Avoid or Limit Alcohol
It is best not to drink alcohol, or limit it as much as possible.
While the above gives only a glimpse of the updated guidelines on diet and physical activity for cancer prevention, this summary can get you started on the right path. Our decisions today, can help us a live a healthy tomorrow.