If you have been wondering if food and cancer
are linked, well, the answer is a definitive “Yes” – and this has
been proven by scientific research.
Indeed, the correlation has been particularly
established with colorectal, prostate, breast, and stomach cancers,
according to Dr Raymond Ng Chee Hui, senior consultant in the
Division of Medical Oncology at the National Cancer Centre
Singapore.
The association between food and cancer is
direct as well as indirect, through weight gain. Excessive body fat
has been found to cause the body to produce hormones and
inflammatory proteins that can promote the growth of tumour
cells.
“Obesity is a major risk factor for cancer,”
says Dr Ng. “Avoiding obesity is perhaps the most important goal
after avoiding smoking.”
Foods that
can increase your risk of cancer:
To reduce your risk of cancer, limit your
consumption of foods high in calories and fats such as:
“Alcohol intake should be limited to no more
than three times a week,” says Dr Ng. Consumption of red meat
should also be limited to three times a week.
Foods that
can reduce your risk of cancer:
A balanced diet with plenty of fresh foods and
fibre has been found to lower your risk of cancer. Choose the
following foods for your daily meals:
Opt for brown rice instead of white rice,
advises Dr Ng.
A healthy
lifestyle can prevent cancer
In addition to a balanced diet and maintaining
a healthy weight, you should get regular physical exercise and
avoid smoking to prevent cancer. A healthy lifestyle can also help
to reduce the risk of developing other serious illnesses such as
diabetes, heart disease and stroke.
Dr Ng says it is important to observe the
guidelines of the Ministry of Health (MOH) on cancer screening to
detect cancer at an early stage. These screening tests include
mammography, pap smear, stool testing, colonoscopy, etc. Women can
consider getting the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine to reduce
their risk of cervical cancer.
Can
supplements help reduce cancer risk?
“Unfortunately, taking supplements and
vitamins does not reduce the risk of cancer. Keeping good health
means you will have to change your lifestyle, exercise and eat
healthy. Taking a supplement is not a substitute for them,” says Dr
Ng.
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