News Article:
ULTRA-PROCESSED FOOD CONSUMPTION LINKED TO HIGHER RISK OF DEATH FROM OVARIAN, BREAST CANCERS: NEW STUDY
Cancer, a disease that affects millions of people worldwide, has many risk factors, some of which can be controlled and managed. While factors like gender, age, and family history are beyond our control, diet is a risk factor that can be managed to reduce the risk of cancer. Dr. Brian Slomovitz, director of gynecologic oncology and co-chair of the Cancer Research Committee at Mount Sinai Medical Center in Miami Beach, Florida, highlighted the importance of proper nutrition in reducing cancer risk.
Dr. Slomovitz stated, “We know that the rate of obesity is high and only increasing — and it’s a risk factor for many cancers. A healthy, balanced diet will help to decrease these cancers.” This statement underscores the significance of maintaining a nutritious diet to lower the risk of developing cancer.
Nichole Andrews, a registered dietitian nutritionist and cancer nutrition specialist from Kennewick, Washington, shared her recommendations for reducing cancer risk through dietary choices. Her six tips for a cancer-reducing diet are as follows:
1. Discover the power of plant-based eating: Andrews suggests making plant-based foods the centerpiece of meals. This includes consuming a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. These foods are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants that have been linked to a reduced risk of various types of cancer. Prioritizing plant-based foods not only lowers cancer risk but also provides the body with the nutrients necessary for overall health.
2. Put the right proteins on your plate: Opt for non-processed meats and lean protein sources like chicken, turkey, fish, seafood, and plant proteins. These choices contain lower levels of saturated fats and heme iron, which are associated with an increased risk of cancer, particularly colorectal cancer. By embracing these protein changes, individuals can reduce their exposure to potentially carcinogenic compounds.
3. Choose the right whole grains: Incorporating whole grains such as brown rice, whole wheat, quinoa, and oats into the diet is important. These grains are rich in fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight. They also contain essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that combat inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which are linked to cancer development.
4. Ensure sufficient fiber: Aim for a daily goal of 30 grams of fiber as part of a cancer risk reduction diet plan. Increasing fiber intake can be achieved by starting the day with a high-fiber breakfast cereal or oatmeal, swapping white rice and pasta for whole grains, incorporating legumes like beans and lentils into meals, snacking on fruits, vegetables, and nuts, and including a variety of high-fiber foods in meals.
5. Embrace healthy hydration: Alcohol consumption has been strongly linked to an increased risk of various types of cancer. To reduce this risk, it is important to limit alcohol intake and embrace healthy hydration through water and other non-alcoholic beverages.
Following these dietary recommendations can significantly contribute to reducing the risk of cancer and promoting overall health. While factors like gender, age, and family history cannot be controlled, taking charge of one’s diet is a powerful step towards preventing cancer.