Living with any form of cancer isn’t easy. But the good news is that an individual may not develop one, especially if they do certain things right. Multiple studies have shown that making certain lifestyle and nutrition changes can help reduce the risk of a wide variety of cancers. However, keep in mind that there is a guaranteed way to prevent cancer. Here, we’ve shared tips that can help prevent as well as fight cancer.

1. Eat more fruits, veggies, and whole grains
These foods are among the healthiest foods on the planet, plus they have been linked to reduced risk of cancer. However, researchers are unsure exactly what foods are the most effective at protecting against cancer. So, it’s best to include a wide range of fruits, veggies, and whole grains in daily life, particularly those high in dietary fiber. A fiber-rich food intake can help keep colon cancer at bay.

2. Maintain healthy body weight
Obesity, or being overweight, has been associated with a slew of diseases, including cancer. In fact, excessive weight increases the risk of several common types of cancer, such as breast, colon, lung, kidney, and prostate. It’s crucial to strive to achieve and maintain healthy body weight. Exercising regularly or being physically active throughout the day can help individuals control weight and improve their quality of life.

3. Cut back on sugar and salt
Both excessive sugar and salt are detrimental to overall health. Sugar-loaded food products, such as desserts, store-bought fruit juices, and cookies, are usually high in calories but devoid of nutrients. Eating such high-sugar foods increases the risk of weight gain. Salt may be fine in moderation, but too much of it may put one at higher risk for stomach and esophageal cancer.

4. Steer clear of tobacco
Tobacco consumption in any form can contribute to cancer. Smoking cigarettes is the leading cause of lung cancer. It also increases an individual’s chances of developing oral, pancreatic, cervical, bladder, laryngeal, and esophageal cancer. Even secondhand smoke can increase the risk of lung cancer. Chewing tobacco is also harmful and may lead to oral and pancreatic cancer. It’s important to note that quitting tobacco at any stage can help prevent cancer.

5. Reduce alcohol intake
Another lifestyle change that lowers the risk of cancer involves cutting back on alcohol. It’s bad for overall health and has been linked to multiple forms of cancer, including liver, rectal, esophageal, oropharyngeal, and breast cancer. Experts recommend a maximum of two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women to protect the body against any adverse effects of alcohol.

6. Protect the skin from the sun
Skin cancer, the most common cancer in the country, is also quite preventable. Exposure to UV radiation from the sun is the primary risk factor for skin cancer. So, one must try to avoid direct exposure to the sunlight as much as possible.