Mounting concerns over the increasing incidence of cancer have prompted experts to step forward with strategies to mitigate the risk.
This trend isn’t simply a byproduct of enhanced screening methods; there are growing worries about global dietary trends contributing to this rise.
Shedding excess pounds, if one is medically overweight, emerges as a top recommendation from health professionals. Achieving good health encompasses more than isolated actions; it necessitates a holistic approach combing various factors.
Dr Charlotte Norton, Chief Medical Officer at The Slimming Clinic, offers insight into how weight reduction could also diminish the risk of developing cancer, reports Surrey Live.
Incorporate Regular Strength Training
One key suggestion from Dr Norton is the inclusion of regular strength training in one’s fitness regime. Dr Norton explains that strength training not only helps individuals slim down but also reduces their risk of cancer: “Strength training boosts metabolism, increases muscle mass, and helps burn more calories, even at rest.”
Studies, research, and expert investigations in this field have shown that muscle strength and physical fitness could halve the risk of death for some cancer patients. Findings published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine indicate that a combination of overall fitness and strength was linked to a reduced risk of death ranging from eight to 46 percent, as reported by the Guardian.
Dr Helen Croker, Assistant Director of research and policy at the World Cancer Research Fund, commented: “These findings underscore the importance of a holistic lifestyle approach instead of focusing on a single factor to reduce cancer risk.”
She added, “Maintaining a healthy weight and, in particular, having a waist circumference within the recommended level and being physically active, along with eating a healthy diet, are all crucial steps to reduce cancer risk.”
Prioritise Sleep and Stress Management
The article also highlights the significance of prioritising sleep and stress management, noting that good sleep and low stress can help maintain mental and physical health. Dr Norton advised: “‘Poor sleep and high stress can disrupt the metabolism and result in weight gain. Consider incorporating stress-relieving practices like meditation or regular exercise to promote better sleep.”
Experts have weighed in on the connection between sleep quality and cancer risk, with Cancer Research UK highlighting a potential red flag. The Daily Express reports that the charity warns: “Cancer related fatigue can affect you physically, emotionally, and mentally. How long it lasts, how severe it is, and how often you might have it is different from person to person.”
Stay hydrated
To combat weight gain and lower cancer risk, Dr Norton suggests keeping well-hydrated to maintain “the body’s gut, digestion and electrolyte balance healthy.”
This advice aligns with the British government’s guidance, which includes drinking plenty of fluids to reduce bowel cancer risk. They advise: “Aim to drink 6-8 glasses of fluid every day. Water, lower fat milk and sugar-free drinks including tea and coffee all count.”
Moreover, they caution about fruit juice and smoothies due to their sugar content, recommending: “Fruit juice and smoothies also count towards your fluid consumption, although they are a source of free sugars and so you should limit consumption to no more than a combined total of 150ml per day.”
Balance Your Diet
Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables is essential for good health and can help prevent weight gain and subsequent disease development.
Vegetables have long been hailed for their health benefits, but experts are raising concerns over a possible connection between Ultra Processed Foods (UPFs) and cancer, the Financial Times has reported. New findings published in Gut journal draw alarming correlations between UPFs and various health issues.
Paper co-author Timothy Yeatman has been quoted stating: “Cancer is like a chronic wound that won’t heal.”
He further added, “If your body is living off . . . ultra-processed foods, its ability to heal that wound decreases due to the inflammation and suppression of the immune system that ultimately allows the cancer to grow.”
Consider a Tailored Weight Loss Programme
Stressing the individuality of each weight loss journey, Dr Norton advises: “Seeking expert help and incorporating weight loss medication whether that’s supplements, tablets, or weight-loss injections, can streamline your journey.”