Good health and proper nutrition are very closely related. Eating the right kinds of food can have a positive impact on more than just your waistline. Certain foods can boost your immune system, or assist with other aspects of your health. As we age, eating healthy can be an even more important aspect of staying healthy. Eating healthier can reduce cancer risks and reduce other health issues overall. This article will discuss foods that can be helpful in reducing the risk of developing cancer.
Making Healthy Choices
A good diet starts with making healthy choices. Reducing processed foods in your diet is a good start. Try to limit high-sugar or high-salt food and drinks. Reducing caffeine and alcohol consumption can also be a good way to feel healthier. Include more fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet. Choose more whole grains over refined carbs. These can help you maintain a healthier weight and a more regular bathroom schedule. Eating healthier makes you feel more energized too.
Healthy Foods To Reduce Cancer Risks
Many fruits and vegetables have phytochemicals and phytonutrients. These are naturally occurring compounds that have been shown to reduce the growth rate of cancerous cells. They can also reduce the risk of cancerous growth.
Foods that include these phytochemicals include spinach, kale, bok choy, swiss chard, broccoli, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, carrots, oranges, berries (especially blueberries and strawberries, and soybeans.
Limiting Red Meat Consumption can Reduce Cancer Risks
Red meat consumption (such as beef, pork, and lamb) has been linked to higher cancer risk. Consider eating more fish, chicken, or turkey. Eggs can also be a good source of protein. Alternatively, opt for non-meat proteins for some of your meals. These can include beans, lentils, chickpeas, and tofu.
Seasoning With Your Health in Mind
Its easy to add salt or butter for extra flavor, but there are a lot of spices that aren’t as unhealthy. Experiment with different spices, and find new flavors that you like. Be mindful of spice blends found in stores, as they likely have high salt content. When shopping for spices, read labels and look for spices without preservatives and other additives. Limit your oil use when cooking, and choose healthier oil options over vegetable or canola oils. Avocado oil, coconut oil, and olive oil are all healthier choices.
Meal Preparation and Eating Healthy
Meal preparation makes it easier to eat healthier throughout the week. Making the right choices and eating well throughout the week can have a big impact on your health. Unfortunately, even the healthiest eaters may have trouble sticking to their good habits as seniors. It can become harder to chop vegetables, stand by the stove, or bend to pull dishes out of the oven. Many seniors experience an overall drop in the quality of their meals as they age. Sometimes, this is because it becomes harder for them to shop for quality ingredients as their mobility worsens. Safeharbor’s Home Health Aides can assist your elderly or disabled loved one in many aspects of their daily life, including meal preparation and grocery shopping. Helping your loved one with creating healthy meals is just one of the many responsibilities of our certified aides.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services does not provide medical, healthcare, or financial advice via articles. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for medical advice.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services has been providing excellent home care on Staten Island since 1967. Our services help the elderly and disabled live safely and independently; while giving their families the peace of mind they need. For more information contact us by clicking here, or by calling (718)-979-6900.
