Health & Fitness

10 Ways to Reduce Your Risk of Cancer

Getting cancer may not be something you can control, but there's a lot you can do to reduce the chances. These 10 tips are a good place to start 

By Wellness Matters /

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Eat antioxidant-rich foods

Antioxidants neutralize the cell-damaging effects of free radicals – a known culprit in the development of many forms of cancer. Blueberries are one way to get more antioxidants.



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Stop smoking

Tobacco smoke contains more than 250 toxic gases, chemicals and metals, many of which are carcinogens. Need help quitting? Try one of these nicotine replacement therapy products.



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Reduce body fat

Body fat increases estrogen levels in the blood, which can stimulate cancers of the female reproductive system and breast. Interval training can help you burn body fat.



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Beware barbecued foods

Limit your consumption of smoked or barbecued foods as studies show they contain various carcinogens.



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Avoid tobacco substitutes

Chewing tobacco and snuff are not safe alternatives to smoking. These smokeless products contain 28 chemicals that are known to cause cancer.



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Increase your dietary fibre

To reduce your risk of developing colon cancer increase your intake of dietary fibre, fruits and vegetables. Get adequate amounts of vitamin D every day.



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Get more vitamin D

Vitamin D is vital to boosting your immune system – your first defence in preventing cancer.



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Be careful with chemical cleaners

Many household cleaning products contain toxic chemicals. Always wear protective gloves when using them. Or, create your own green cleaning products.



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Get your gut checked regularly

Colorectal cancer is one of the leading causes of death in Canada, but it’s also one of the most curable forms of cancer when caught early. Read more about cancer prevention.



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Consider genetic testing

Some people may be genetically predisposed to developing certain forms of cancer. If a certain type of cancer runs in your family, consider genetic testing.


Originally published in Wellness Matters, Canada Wide Media’s quarterly newsletter on health and wellness.