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11/03/2007: ""This is no time to eat healthy.”"

It is strange to hear the words, “This is no time to eat healthy” coming form a doctor’s mouth. My oncologist and I were discussing my weight. I have been holding about 5 to 8 pounds above my lowest for several months. Thursday I weighed in a little light and told her I would work on it. That when she uttered the sentence. I had to laugh as she knows how much work I put into eating right. I had just done a pretty good job of resisting the temptations of Halloween. She continued to clarify for me stating that she didn’t want me to go crazy on sugar but don’t shy away from fats. She wants me to have cheese and crackers as well as nuts out in bowls so I grab a handful each time I pass by.

The American Institute for Cancer Research just collected and analyzed a huge sum of research and has released its Second Expert Report. In it they confirm the link between diet and cancer. What follows is their list of recommendations based on the research for the prevention of cancer. If you have been following this blog over the past couple of years, these recommendations will look familiar.

- 1. Be as lean as possible without becoming underweight.
- 2. Be physically active for at least 30 minutes every day.
- 3. Avoid sugary drinks. Limit consumption of energy-dense foods (particularly processed foods high in added sugar, or low in fiber, or high in fat).
- 4. Eat more of a variety of vegetables, fruits, whole grains and legumes such as beans.
- 5. Limit consumption of red meats (such as beef, pork and lamb) and avoid processed meats.
- 6. If consumed at all, limit alcoholic drinks to 2 for men and 1 for women a day.
- 7. Limit consumption of salty foods and foods processed with salt (sodium).
- 8. Don't use supplements to protect against cancer.

Special Population Recommendations
- 9. It is best for mothers to breastfeed exclusively for up to 6 months and then add other liquids and foods.
- 10. After treatment, cancer survivors should follow the recommendations for cancer prevention.

And always remember – do not smoke or chew tobacco.

www.aicr.org

Not only is this a good list for cancer prevention but also for an overall healthier life. We all seem to live with various ailments. A good diet can help alleviate many troubles and help us all live a longer and healthier life. Oh, by the way, an hour later I saw my doctor walk by with a bowl of cottage cheese and
melon slices for lunch.