5 self-care habits that can also prevent cancer

Self-care is not just face masks and bubble baths. (Although it can be that too!) Self-care is about implementing healthy habits that improve your life. Did you know that many self-care habits can also prevent cancer? Here are five habits you can do to care for your body and reduce your cancer risk.

1. Commit to a workout routine.

Not only is exercise good for your physical health, but it’s also time you spend for you. Exercise reduces stress and increases energy. And it reduces your cancer risk! Physical activity is linked to a lower risk of colorectal, breast and endometrial cancers, and possibly others. Aim for 30 minutes of physical activity five days a week, and choose exercise you love. If you hate running, that’s not self-care! Try a variety of activities before locking in a routine, whether it’s Zumba, yoga, walking, biking or weightlifting.

2. Swap your cocktails for mocktails.

Drinking alcohol is linked to several cancers, so it’s best to limit or even avoid it completely. That doesn’t mean, though, that you can’t enjoy fun drinks during self-care nights in, movie nights or book club meetings. Treat yourself with a fun mocktail, or go for kombucha (which can benefit your gut health), seltzer or tea (which also has benefits).

3. Skin care is self-care.

You may think of face masks, facials or exfoliating scrubs when you think of skin care. But don’t forget that protecting your skin from the sun is a great way to reduce your skin cancer risk and keep your skin looking young. Wear sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher every day. Also, there is no safe way to tan: Excessive sun exposure damages your skin and tanning beds also expose your skin to ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Both increase your risk of skin cancer. If you want a sun-kissed look, go with self-tanning products instead.

4. Prioritize plant-based.

When you eat well, you feel better. Eat lots of fruits, vegetables, beans and whole grains to prioritize your health and reduce your cancer risk. For a fun night with friends, host a potluck or cook together. Explore new recipes to see what’s easy and what flavors you love. Check out some of the Prevent Cancer Foundation staff’s favorite healthy recipes.

5. Make sure you’re getting enough sleep. 

We get it—life is busy. Between work, caretaking for kids or other family members, hobbies, exercise, cooking, cleaning—the list goes on—it can be hard to catch enough Zs. Sleep impacts your heart health and brain performance, so try to make it a priority. Aim for 7-9 hours of high-quality sleep. While sleep and cancer risk haven’t been linked directly, you can’t live a healthy, well-balanced lifestyle without it—and that impacts the rest of your health decisions.

همچنین بخوانید | Spring clean your wellness routine