Much of the latest cancer research seems to indicate cancer is caused by a vast array of lifestyle choices. At first we heard about food choices, namely eating fresh fruits and veggies. But now the anti-cancer diet is much more refined than that, and we also have many other lifestyle choices from which to choose that appear to drastically influence whether we get cancer of live cancer-free.
Recently I read a remarkable book called, "The Anti-Cancer Cure," by Dr. David Servan-Schreiber. He is a doctor who is also a brain cancer survivor. How he was diagnosed with the disease is amazing, but then after his diagnosis, he, as a physician, dedicated himself to figuring out what causes cancer and therefore, how to prevent it.
First, he found out he had brain cancer accidentally. He was doing research that involved getting brain scans on test subjects. When one of those subjects didn't show up for the scan, Servan-Schreiber stepped in. When he saw his scan, he saw the tumor.
He is in remission now, but not after doing exhaustive research into why he developed cancer. Here are some of his findings:
First, he believes cancer lies dormant in all of us, our bodies are making defective cells all the time. The good news is our bodies are designed to defend against such abnormal cells. In other words, if we live healthy lives -- and that includes mental, emotional, and spiritual health -- our bodies will fight-off cancer cells before they develop into tumors. I believe this, too.
Thanks to God almighty, who designed us with perfection, our immune systems are capable of inhibiting cancer cells. But we have to live the way God intended...and many of us are not.
Many of us are doing things to our bodies that actually activate cancer cells. We feed them with rotten food and lifestyle choices, instead of cutting that cancer off at the knees with good choices.
We can change, though, and there's no better time than right now. So what do we have to do to allow our bodies to defeat cancer instead of aiding it? Lots.
Reducing inflammation is one key. Inflammation is blamed for many types of cancer, and is caused in part from a poor diet, you know, like the traditional American diet.
Wow, big shock there. Red meat, pork, refined carbs, processed foods all need to go. Instead, replace them with natural foods like fresh vegetables, fresh fruits, whole grains, fish (not fried!), olive oil, nuts, avacados.
One of the most important anti-cancer diet re-dos is eliminating sugar. You think you love sugar? So does cancer....cancer just thrives on sugar.
Okay, so aside from diet, what else? Well, as I blogged earlier, a bad attitude actually causes cancer. Research supports this theory, and it is becoming more mainstream. Persistent anger or despair causes cancer. On the other hand, laughter, lightheartedness, and serenity fight it off.
This makes perfect sense, because after all, God did not create us to be full of hate and anxiety. We are commanded to love and forgive and spend time with Him in prayer. No wonder it's good for us.
Cancer also loves a sedentary body. Conversely, exercise strengthens our immune system. The more the better. Every day is best. And don't be afraid to push it. Think positively! You're young and strong! You can handle it! And you will feel great as well as living better.
Lastly, there are environmental dangers to avoid in order to avoid cancer. Things like atmospheric pollution and domestic pollutants, and of course cigarette smoke.
Do I really have to say that? If you are a smoker and have trouble quitting, see your doctor. There are smoking cessation drugs, like Chantix, that have proven effective. But a word of caution about Chantix: although many doctors say it's the best drug yet to get folks to kick the habit, it also has lots of scary side effects. So again, consult your doctor before taking it.