Could Your Diet Be Secretly Raising Your Cancer Risk?

?We've talked about the benefits of a healthy diet, but now let’s dive into some hard facts. A healthy whole foods, plant-based diet isn’t just beneficial—it’s been scientifically proven to reverse some of the blockage in the heart’s arteries! This alone is of tremendous value since heart attack is the leading cause of death in the U.S.A. and many other countries. But the benefits don’t stop there. This diet can even improve some cancer outcomes. Yes, you heard that right—improve some cancer outcomes.

The Changing Face of Colon Cancer

Colon cancer is a leading cause of death, and with everything we know in 2024, it’s tragic that so many people still suffer needlessly and die prematurely from this preventable disease.

When I was in medical school, seeing someone in their 40s with advanced colon cancer was rare. Today, it's sadly more common—I even lost a friend to this disease when she was in her 40s. So, what’s changed? While we don’t have all the answers, one thing we do know is that our lifestyle choices play a big role. One significant way to lower your risk is by adopting a whole foods, plant-based diet.

Now, I’m not saying you need to give up meat entirely, but at the very least, cut back on red and processed meats, please. In our busy, fast-paced society, it’s tempting to hit the drive-thru. But let’s be real—there are countless benefits to preparing home-cooked meals. You get to skip the ultra-processed foods, which have been linked to premature death, and with leftovers, it’s a huge time-saver. Think about it: how much time do you spend driving to fast food restaurants? Probably more than it takes to whip up something simple at home.

Cooking Smarter, Not Harder

Here’s a quick tip: make a crockpot full of vegetarian chili. The beans in chili are an incredible source of plant-based protein and fiber, so no meat is necessary! Beans not only help you feel full, but they’re packed with nutrients that help support heart health and digestion. Want to add some extra flavor or variety? Customize your chili with your favorite spices—try smoked paprika, green chilies, fresh garlic, and a splash of lemon juice. Add in your favorite beans, such as black beans, kidney beans, or pinto beans, along with organic vegetables like onions, peppers, and tomatoes.

If you still want to include meat, opt for ground turkey instead of beef. Turkey is a leaner option that provides protein without the higher levels of saturated fat found in red meat. It’s a great way to balance flavor and health.

The best part? It only takes minutes to toss everything into the crockpot, and when you come home from work, you’ll have a delicious, nutrient-packed meal ready to enjoy. You’ll likely have enough leftovers to freeze for future meals. Invest in some glass storage containers (definitely glass over plastic!), and you’ve got several ready-to-go, healthy meals in under 20 minutes of prep. It’s a simple way to eat healthy, even when life gets hectic.

Breast Cancer and the Plant-Based Connection

Now, let’s talk about a topic close to many of our hearts—breast cancer. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and it’s important for all women to know that a whole foods, plant-based diet can lower the risk of developing breast cancer and even reduce recurrence after diagnosis.

Women who adopt a healthy lifestyle, with a plant-based diet at the center, often handle cancer treatments better and live longer than those following a standard Western diet. That’s huge. Food truly is medicine.

Men, This One’s for You

Gentlemen, don’t think I forgot about you. A healthy, plant-based diet isn’t just beneficial for women. Research shows that men who embrace this lifestyle as part of an intensive lifestyle change program may experience lower PSA levels—a key marker for prostate health. Higher PSA levels are linked to prostate cancer, meaning what you eat directly impacts your health.

Food is Medicine

Hippocrates famously said, “Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.” Whether or not he was the original source of this wisdom, the message rings true. The earth provides us with tremendous resources to nourish and heal our bodies—if we choose wisely. The key is to focus on real, organic, whole foods, and avoid harmful pesticides, herbicides, and unhealthy cooking methods like frying.

Your SMART Goal for the Week

This week, I challenge you to take action with a simple SMART goal:

• Specific: Prepare a pot of vegetable soup or chili.
• Measurable: One big batch.
• Achievable: Too busy to chop vegetables? Buy them pre-cut!
• Relevant: Increasing your intake of whole, plant-based foods directly aligns with your goals for longevity and vitality by lowering cancer risk.
• Time-bound: Complete this goal within the next two weekends.

Go online and search for a chili recipe that fits your tastes, or ask a friend who makes an amazing chili for their recipe. Invest in some glass storage containers so you can freeze leftovers and enjoy healthy meals on days when cooking feels like a chore.

Taking small steps now can lead to big health improvements later. Let your food fuel your future!

Reach out to me if you would like resources on how to transition into this powerhouse lifestyle. If you’d like to take a deeper dive and want transformational health coaching to fit your busy schedule, you can book a free call so we can talk about your specific situation and goals.

?Until next time, remember, it won't do you any good to work, work, work and save a ton of money for retirement if you're not around to enjoy all the money in your bank account. Make plans NOW for a healthy, long retirement filled with vitality and happiness!

-Coach Dr. Ann

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