October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and, in light of that, we’re sharing with you a few tips that can help you lower your risk of getting breast cancer.
#1 Limit your alcohol intake
Consuming excessive amounts of alcohol increases your risk of developing breast cancer. Feel free to enjoy a glass or two every now and then, but don't drink excessively. According to research, the general recommendation for alcohol is one drink per day but, if you can help yourself, try to drink even less.
#2 Watch your weight
Most people watch their weight for all the wrong reasons. If there’s one thing to watch your weight for, it’s avoiding the Big C. Being at a healthy weight doesn’t mean weighing the least among your friends. It doesn’t mean fitting into XS size clothing when you’re supposed to be an S or an M. Your healthy weight depends on a number of things including your age and your weight. Seek the help of a professional to find out what your healthiest and most ideal weight is and how to achieve it.
#3 Avoid the sedentary lifestyle
Maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle is one way to decrease your chances of developing not just breast cancer but any type of cancer. You don’t have to be a marathoner or a gym rat to have an active lifestyle. Doing small and simple things like using the stairs instead of the elevator and walking instead of driving can help just as much.
#4 Breastfeed
Breastfeeding is not just good for your baby, it’s good for you too! Aside from all the other benefits they tell you that come with breastfeeding, did you know that it can also help you prevent developing breast cancer? Breastfeed for as long as you can to increase its protective effect and get the most out of it.
#5 Get tested regularly
If you have someone in the family who has/has had breast cancer, you have a higher chance of developing it as well. Women at a certain age bracket also have increased chances of getting it. This is why getting tested regularly is a must. It is recommended to get tested for breast cancer every two years if you are in the “high risk” category.
Breast cancer is a disease that mainly affects women, but men should be just as cautious and as conscious about staying healthy to keep the Big C at bay.