Sunday Thoughts (healthy habits)

On Sundays, I like to eat what I call a “super salad.” It’s one of my wife & my favorite meals.

And it’s the best when we can pull the food right from our garden.

I know a nutrition-packed salad isn’t always your first choice when thinking about your next meal, but I always feel better afterwards.

Sharper, energized, and a feeling of accomplishment when it’s something I grew myself.

Now, we know that most folks don’t eat enough fruits & vegetables. Just 1 in 10 Americans do.

And we’re missing out on a lot if we skip out on that vital part of our diet.

Adult women need at least 1½ cups of fruit and 2½ cups of vegetables each day.

Adult men need at least 2 cups of fruit and 3½ cups of vegetables each day.

That’s not a whole lot.

Most people think about these foods when it relates to weight, or diabetes, or even getting the proper amount of vitamins and minerals.

And that’s all true – it’s great for all of that.

But what you may not know is there are some foods connected to preventing cancer.

That’s a motivator to me, and maybe it is to you too.

Look here. I’ve lost loved ones and friends to cancer. I can bet you have as well.

It’s a horrible thing, and oftentimes it appears to be completely outside of our control.

I want to share with you some ways that we are in control. Healthy habits make you stronger, and less susceptible to all kinds of health issues. Including cancer.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women, with invasive breast cancer affecting 1 in every 8 women in the United States during their lifetime. It even occurs in men. But, only 1% of breast cancer cases are men.

Check out these foods that may lower the risk of breast cancer.

Leafy green vegetables
Citrus fruits
Fatty fish
Berries
Fermented foods
Allium vegetables
Peaches, apples, and pears
Cruciferous vegetables
Beans
Herbs and spices

I don’t know about you… but these are all foods that I love. I change up my “super salad” weekly depending on what I have, but it always includes at least 4 of the foods on the list above. They taste great, and I feel even better eating them knowing the perks they provide to Karen & me.

There’s no doubt that your diet can help prevent chronic diseases, including breast cancer. However, many other lifestyle choices may affect your cancer risk as well.

Opting for natural skin care, gardening, and cleaning products are also great choices when looking for ways to decrease your breast cancer risk.

But please, keep in mind that regular medical appointments and breast cancer screenings are critical for early detection and diagnosis. Speak with your healthcare provider if you have questions about your breast cancer risk or the screening process.

Remember, cancer risk is complex but certainly influenced by your diet.

I don’t mean to rain on your weekend, but I cherish each and every reader out there.

And I want you to be healthy and happy for a good long time.

Enjoy the rest of your Sunday.