What You Need to Know about Junk Food and Cancer
A recent study found that ultra-processed foods are linked to a higher risk of developing cancer. It’s more evidence that the consequences of eating chips and candy go far beyond the empty calories.
Each 10% increase in junk food consumption was associated with a 2% higher cancer rate overall. For ovarian cancer, the increase was 19%, making the findings especially concerning for women.
The study indicates this is on top of other known risks, including diabetes and obesity. The research was conducted by the Imperial College London’s School of Public Health based on tracking 200,000 middle-aged adults over ten years.
Learn how to win your battle with junk food. Try this practical approach to cutting back on ultra-processed foods and other cancer risks.
Suggestions For Cutting Back on Junk Food
The average American gets over 60% of their daily calories from ultra-processed foods. Some experts believe these products are addictive and usually cost less than natural foods. Planning ahead can help you avoid them.
- Stay full. Cravings are harder to control when you’re hungry. Enjoy regular meals and snacks full of protein, fiber, and moderate fat. Drink plenty of water too.
- Find substitutes. Satisfy your taste buds with healthier alternatives. For example, replace sugary cereals with oatmeal and fresh fruit for breakfast.
- Wait it out. Most cravings fade in about 10 minutes. Instead of giving in immediately, distract yourself by calling a friend or watching a video.
- Manage stress. You probably have triggers that make you reach for your favorite comfort foods. Deal with tension more constructively by breathing deeply or going for a walk.
- Block ads. The average American child sees over a thousand fast food commercials yearly. Be aware of their impact.
- Shop the perimeter. Keep junk food out of your house. Stick to the outer aisles, where you’ll find more whole foods. It also helps to have a snack before grocery shopping to increase your resistance.
- Be patient. It may take time for your taste buds to adjust to a different way of eating. Ultra-processed foods are designed with stronger flavors, so broccoli and apples could initially seem bland. However, you can retrain your palate if you persevere.
Other Suggestions for Reducing Cancer Risks
The World Health Organization estimates that 30 to 50% of cancers are preventable. Make other smart choices that can help you stay healthy.
- Quit smoking. Tobacco causes about 20% of cancers and 30% of cancer deaths. If you’ve tried to quit before, try again. Use a combination of methods, like nicotine replacement devices and social support.
- Wear sunscreen. Shield your skin from sun damage. Use broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher, even on cold or cloudy days. Sit in the shade or stay indoors during peak sun hours.
- Lose weight. Extra pounds can make you more vulnerable to cancer. Slim down safely with a balanced diet.
- Exercise consistently. Working out at least 4 hours a week may help prevent colon cancer. Research shows that physical activity releases a protein called interleukin-6 into your bloodstream, where it helps repair DNA in your body cells.
- Schedule screenings. Ask your doctor which screenings and checkups are appropriate based on age and medical history. Early detection may make cancer treatable or even curable.
Junk food does more than thicken your waistline. Making positive changes in your diet could protect you from cancer and other serious health issues so you can live a longer and more active life.
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