8 tips to reduce cancer risk

Cancer is a very frightening disease, and the number of people suffering from it is increasing.

Unfortunately, many people are unaware, or aware but complacent, that many cancers—such as liver, oral, uterine, kidney, and skin cancer—can be prevented simply by eating properly, maintaining a stable weight, and exercising regularly.

Here are eight tips from health experts. Some may seem small and simple, but if practiced as a habit, as part of your lifestyle, they can help reduce your risk of cancer.

Drink 1-2 glasses of beer per day.

Beer helps fight against Helicobacter pylori bacteria, the culprit behind ulcers and potentially leading to stomach cancer. Therefore, if consumed in moderation, beer can be beneficial to health.

If consumed in moderation, beer can be beneficial to health. (Illustration)

Conversely, drinking more than two glasses of beer a day increases the risk of oral, throat, esophageal, and liver cancer. Women should be even more cautious as drinking a lot of beer increases the risk of breast cancer.

Do not remain immobile for more than two hours, except when sleeping.

A new study from the University of Regensburg (Germany) shows that the risk of developing cancer, especially uterine, colon, and lung cancer, increases by up to 10% if a person habitually sits still for more than two hours at a time. This holds true even for those who regularly exercise at other times of the day.

Always marinate the meat thoroughly before grilling.

Grilling or frying meat at high temperatures produces many carcinogenic chemicals. Researchers at the American Institute for Cancer Research found that covering meat with marinade before grilling or frying prevents direct contact with the fire and high temperatures, limiting the amount of carcinogenic chemicals released during the grilling or frying process.

A simple marinade recipe is a mixture of one teaspoon of lemon juice, two tablespoons of olive oil, one tablespoon of honey, a little soy sauce, and mustard.

Do not store fruit in the refrigerator.

Many studies show that the anti-cancer nutrients in fruits are lost significantly when stored in the refrigerator instead of at room temperature. For example, compared to tomatoes and peppers stored in the refrigerator, tomatoes and peppers stored at room temperature have twice the amount of betacarotene and up to 20 times the amount of lycopene. Betacarotene and lycopene are two substances that reduce the risk of cancer.

Don't cook vegetables in the microwave.

Instead, boil them in a pot of water on the stovetop. According to Spanish researchers, cooking vegetables in a microwave does not reduce their vitamin C content; however, it destroys 97% of flavonoid compounds (abundant in broccoli) that play a role in protecting the body against cancer.

Do not fill your home with artificial fragrances.

You might not believe it, but indoor air is often more polluted than outdoor air. Cigarette smoke is the biggest source of pollution, but you shouldn't underestimate the effects of fragrances from cleaning products, air fresheners, scented candles, etc., as these can also be culprits in causing cancer.

There are no statistics on how much or for how long inhaling these scents can be harmful to health, but it's best to be mindful of limiting your exposure and frequently open windows and doors to allow for air circulation.

Limit your salt intake.

Salt is responsible for 14% of lung cancer cases in the UK. Always remember that your daily salt intake should be less than 6g. Be careful not only when cooking but also check the salt content in processed foods.

Sleep in complete darkness.

Numerous studies have found that regular exposure to artificial light from lamps at night – common among night shift workers – increases the risk of developing certain types of cancer, such as breast cancer and prostate cancer.

Experts believe that sleeping under artificial light at night alters hormones in the body, leading to a weakened immune system.

On the other hand, sleeping in complete darkness increases the body's production of melatonin, the hormone that promotes good sleep, which may help prevent some types of cancer. It's best to use a night mask that provides ample light.

According to Alobacsi.vn