These days, many of us have a fear of developing cancer, as it’s a life-changing disease that can be brought on due to so many things. While there are several aspects related to developing cancer that are beyond our control, something that is in our control is our daily habits.
Nichole Andrews, a registered dietitian who specializes in cancer nutrition, recently made a TikTok video about seven poor lifestyle habits that “actually increase” your risk of cancer. After all, there are many myths flying around the health community about things that can cause cancer, so it’s best to know the facts. Avoiding these poor habits is simpler than you think, and if you stay away from them as often as possible, your body will thank you. Read more about them below.
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1. Using Tobacco
Smoking and using other tobacco products have been notorious for being dangerous to your health for years. When you start smoking cigarettes or using chewing tobacco, you're putting yourself at an extremely high risk of cancer. Nichole notes that "all tobacco products" increase your risk of cancer, so it's best to stay away from them at all costs. Especially products like cigarettes that contain nicotine, and just keep you going back for more.
If you pick up smoking due to stress, consider talking to a mental health counselor or trusted friend about alternative methods for stress relief that will keep your body healthy.
2. Alcohol
Drinking is such a big part of our culture these days that once you become an adult, it can be hard to dodge it. Even if you don't drink copious amounts, it's important to note that drinking any amount of alcohol, no matter what kind it is, increases your risk of developing "six different cancers," according to Nichole.
"All alcohol types, including red wine," she adds. "Don't let anyone tell you that it's like, antioxidant-filled. No, it's filled with ethanol."
If you drink, be sure to limit how many drinks you have per week and keep your numbers low. Or, if cancer runs in your family and developing it is a big concern, try living a sober lifestyle for a while and see how you can manage.
3. Having Excess Body Fat Tissue
Not only does carrying around excess weight and body fat cause health problems like diabetes, high blood pressure, and more, but just carrying around higher amounts of body fat tissue can put you at risk of different cancers. Nichole says it "increases your risk of 13 cancers," so if you've been struggling with your weight, you may want to consult your doctor about the best and healthiest way to go about losing it.
4. Eating Processed Meats
While enjoying a hot dog or some bacon for breakfast every now and then is alright, frequently consuming processed meats can gradually put you at a higher risk of developing cancer. In fact, they're one of the most well-known carcinogens, and especially increase your chances of colorectal cancer. If you can, ensure your balance is diet, and focus on more lean, unprocessed sources of protein, while enjoying processed meats on occasion.
Some extra healthy and beneficial protein sources include fatty fish like salmon, and lean proteins like ground turkey and chicken breast.
5. Excess Intake Of Red Meat
Red meat can be nutrient-dense, delicious, and filling. While it's totally fine to enjoy in moderation, filling your diet with too much red meat isn't very good for you. You may think filling up on steak every day is luxurious and bound to give you "gains," but Nichole points out that an "excess intake" of red meat, which means beyond 18 ounces a week, "increases risk for colon cancer."
Be sure to balance your intake of red meat with lots of fibrous fruits and vegetables, and switch up your protein sources throughout the week. You can focus on healthy animal proteins like the ones listed above, or even rely on more plant-based proteins, like beans and legumes.
6. Too Much Sun Damage
Now that summer is in full swing and nearing the end, many have been working on their tans in their backyards or at the beach. Sure, getting some color is nice, but consistently spending time in the sun and getting sunburnt is damaging to your health and can easily put you at risk for cancer.
Over time, if you neglect to put on sunscreen, you can make your body susceptible to melanoma and other types of skin cancer. So, while it may be nice to look tan, don't risk your health and ensure you not only put on sunscreen when you get to the beach, but reapply it! Plus, it's also one of the best ways to slow down the aging process and reduce the appearance of wrinkles.
7. Taking High Doses Of Supplements
While supplements can help fill nutritional gaps, taking high doses of certain vitamins and minerals may actually do more harm than good, especially when it comes to cancer risk. Research has linked excessive intake of supplements like beta-carotene, vitamin E, and others to an increased risk of certain cancers. More isn't always better, and megadosing can disrupt your body's natural balance. It's always best to talk to a healthcare provider before adding high-dose supplements to your routine.
