Nearly two-thirds of cancers may be prevented through
healthy lifestyle choices. Eating a proper diet, exercising regularly and
quitting the use of tobacco products are some of the best cancer prevention
tools.
Eat A Healthy Diet
Eating a healthy diet can help prevent cancer. The
following guidelines will help you make choices that may reduce your risk of
cancer and other life-limiting diseases.
- Eat more fruits, vegetables and grains
- Eat five or more servings of fruits and vegetables
each day
- Eat other foods from plant sources (breads, cereals,
grains, rice, pasta or beans)
- Eat less high-fat food and meat
- Choose foods low in fat
- Limit consumption of meats, especially high-fat
meats
- Drink less alcohol, if you drink
- For men, limit alcohol to two drinks a day; for
women, one drink a day
Exercise Regularly
Studies have shown that physical activity can help
protect against some cancers. The National Cancer Institute recommends a
minimum of 30 minutes of moderate physical activity each day. Even
low-intensity exercise, like walking, can have an enormous impact on reducing
your cancer risk.
Research has proven that people who exercise are
healthier. If you're in good physical shape, your body will be better able to
handle whatever comes its way. In addition to cancer, exercise fights heart
disease, high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes and depression. If you need to
start an exercise program, talk to your doctor about a plan that’s right for
you.
Stop Using Tobacco Products
Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can
do for your health, and it can reduce your risk of heart disease, lung disease
and stroke, as well as cancer.
Mount
Carmel offers SmokeStoppers, a unique smoking cessation program. With one call
to a smoking cessation coordinator, you can find either a group or individualized
program that will provide you the best opportunity for quitting.
Our three-phase group program consists of eight, 60-90 minute
classes held over a one-month period. Our individual program is customized to
your needs and consists of six, 45-minute sessions conducted both in-person and
over the phone. Both programs include our SmokeStoppers Kit and 12 months of
personal follow-up support, which help our program participants become
non-users at a rate higher than the national average. Both programs cost $125
and may be covered by insurance.
For more information or to enroll, call 614-234-QUIT.
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