Control Cancer Rather Than Letting It Control You
Although the exact cause of many types of cancers remains unknown, it is known that cancer develops due to a genetic alteration that allows these cells to grow independently and uncontrollably. Cellular mutations are believed to occur regularly but the immune system normally captures and destroys abnormal cells. Therefore, the growth of cancer may be caused by a deficiency of the immune system.
It is important to read the warning labels for many products. Many people do not realize that products they use every day contain carcinogens. When buying products, pay careful attention to the ingredients of the product, and even look for warning labels that may say that the product you intend to purchase may cause cancer.
Find reliable sources for cancer information. General Internet searches can turn up a mix of reliable and unreliable cancer information, which can be difficult to wade through and figure out what to believe. For accurate, reliable information visit your hospital’s resource center or library. Also visit websites of reputable hospitals and government agencies. Issues of cancer journals are also a good source of up-to-date information.
Keep up a healthy, active lifestyle. Eat healthy, nutritious foods and exercise when possible. Keeping active can help you cope better with treatment and lead to a longer life. Also be sure to get enough sleep, which will help alleviate some of the stress of cancer treatment and fend off fatigue.
Focus on having a healthy diet during your cancer treatment. Eating better will give you more energy for everything that you are going through. It will also help you feel less stressed because your body will have the fuel it needs for the day. Research has shown that eating well may also extend your life.
Decrease the amount of red (such as lamb, pork, and beef) and processed meats in your diet. Studies have shown that red meat can increase your chances of getting cancer. If you do buy red meat, make sure that it is lean meat. You don’t have to remove red meat from your diet, just limit it.
While battling cancer, try your best to maintain a normal lifestyle. The more normal your lifestyle is, the less chances you have of becoming stressed and facing anxiety. Stress and anxiety can make cancer sufferers lose sight of hope in their troubling time. If any adjustments must be made to maintain a normal life, then consider them.
When battling cancer, it is important for you to share your feelings openly and honestly. No one expects you to be filled with butterflies and roses at all times. Sharing your feelings is a great way for you to get out any anger or sadness you have, and to keep from allowing depression to overtake you at the same time.
Certain chemicals, known as carcinogens, can sometimes be involved in the development of cancer. Asbestos is a well known carcinogen that has been linked to lung cancer. Some lifestyle factors also affect the development and growth of cancer. Riskier behaviors that can be changed to decrease the chance of getting cancer include smoking, alcohol use, diet and sexual behavior.