According to Dr Richard Nahas, unlike popular belief, stomach cancer is very common. It is the sixth most common cancer in the world. While the number of cases has dropped over the past few decades, you can never be too careful. Let’s check out how you can prevent yourself from getting stomach cancer.
Tips & Tricks
1. Check for ulcers – Helicobacter pylori is a common bacteria. Don’t let the funny-sounding scientific name fool you. While the bacteria may not always make you sick, it can infect your stomach lining and that leads to ulcers. The bacteria are treated as a carcinogen. That means it can cause cancer. So, even if stomach ulcers can be treated easily, they hint at the presence of the carcinogen bacteria. So, if you’re diagnosed with stomach ulcers you may need to have the presence of Helicobacter pylori checked and treat it if found.
2. Get fresh produce and pile it on – Make sure to switch to a healthier diet with plenty of fresh veggies and fruits. Fresh produce can significantly bring down the chances of you getting stomach cancer. Lemons, oranges, grapefruits and other citrus fruits are great for this purpose. However, make sure to consult your doctor about this diet change since grapefruit might affect some medicines you may take.
For instance, grapefruit affect statins that help people to lower the bad cholesterol level in their body. The American cancer society also recommends switching out red meat and processed meat with beans, poultry and fish as your primary protein source. It’s also better to switch out refined grains like white flour with whole-wheat grains for making bread, cereal and pasta.
3. Cut down on smoked and pickled food – Before refrigerators were invented, salting, pickling and smoking food were the only ways to preserve food. In modern times, smoked and pickled food exists solely for its flavour. However, it isn’t good for your health, especially if you want to prevent cancer.
Smoked and pickled food contains too many compounds that can harm the lining of your stomach and make you more susceptible to stomach cancer. That’s why you should cut down on smoked food to once in one or two months and reduce eating salted fish and meat.
4. Quit smoking and do more exercise – Smoking is a bad habit in general. It harms your respiratory system, puts other people around you at risk and injects your body full of carcinogens. When you smoke, you’re exposed to all kinds of cancer including that of the stomach.
That’s why you should quit it as soon as possible and consult a doctor if you need help. You should also consider working out regularly. Being more fit and active reduces the risk of numerous health problems including stomach cancer.
Conclusion
Dr Richard Nahas suggests that you use all available options to give yourself the advantage and prevent stomach cancer. Cancer, be it any kind, isn’t easy to deal with. It puts a toll on your body and puts a mental and psychological toll on your friends and family.