Can Your Environment Increase Your Cancer Risk?

One of the scariest things about cancer is that it just happens, and it's often hard to know why, or what we could have done to avoid it. And in some cases, it really is unavoidable. But the good news is that an estimated eighty percent of cancers are caused by our immediate environment – which means that we do have some control over our cancer risk! By limiting our exposure to chemical compounds in the products we use, the food we eat and the water we drink, we can help protect ourselves.

Even chemicals that have been deemed “safe” can build up to unsafe levels after years of repeated exposure. And as the body ages, its ability to effectively purge itself of toxins diminishes. When the cells are inundated with toxic substances that they can't get rid of, mutations occur; cancer is a proliferation of these mutated cells.

We're surrounded by these toxins on a daily basis, from even the most unlikely sources. Here is just a small sampling of fairly common carcinogenic compounds:

-solvents such as benzene, carbon tetrachloride, chloroform, methylene chloride, trichloroethylene

-asbestos, which can be found in older roofs, pipes, insulation, and many other products (over 5000 in all)

-dioxins, produced in part by the bleaching of paper products (including tampons and toilet paper)

While it's virtually impossible to avoid every environmental hazard, we can substantially cut our risk factor by being vigilant about what goes into (and onto) our bodies. Read labels and familiarize yourself with ingredients; the fewer chemicals you come in contact with, the better.

The Importance of Detoxification

If you're breathing – which we sincerely hope you are – you're taking in toxins. You're also ingesting them and drinking them and bathing with them and ... the list goes on. Toxins are associated with many conditions, ranging from acne and headaches to neurodegenerative diseases, like Parkinson's, and cancer. In order to help prevent these ailments, it's necessary to detoxify your system; things just work better when they're clean, and that goes for your body.

If you're looking to more effectively ward off toxin-related diseases, a good place to start is with the addition of more fruits and vegetables to your diet (organic, please!). They're a great source of phytochemicals and antioxidants, which bolster the body's ability to rid itself of toxic substances. Some of the best sources include cruciferous vegetables, like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, and cauliflower; leafy greens like spinach, kale, and watercress; and tomatoes, red grapes, and berries. Adding more of these foods to your diet is a good way to help immediately, and for a more complete detoxification there are holistic methods (IV therapy, colon hydrotherapy, coffee enemas) that work wonders.

When your system is free from years worth of built-up toxins, it's able to function much more efficiently. You'll be amazed at the difference.