Our body weight has a significant impact on our overall health and well-being. As a women’s holistic weight loss doctor, I often get asked about the link between body weight and cancer risk. With obesity being on the rise, this is a valid concern for many people, especially women, as they are more likely to be affected by weight-related health problems. So, without further ado, here’s everything you need to know about whether or not excess weight can cause cancer.
Does Obesity Cause Cancer?
The simple answer is yes; having extra weight can indeed cause cancer. As per the research from the American Cancer Society, being overweight or obese is said to be responsible for cancer in around 11% of women, which is a significant number. In addition to this, extra weight accounts for about 18 % of all deaths in the United States, which is three times more than what was previously thought. In fact, having issues with weight is linked to an increased risk of developing thirteen different types of cancer, including breast, womb and ovarian, thyroid, and endometrial cancers. Women with weight management issues are two to four times more likely to develop endometrial cancer than women of a more normal weight.
While the link between extra weight and cancer is well-established, the exact mechanisms by which having issues with weight management causes cancer are not fully understood. However, it is believed that excess fat tissue in the body leads to chronic inflammation, which in turn promotes the development of cancerous cells. In addition, extra fat tissue is also thought to increase levels of certain hormones in the body, such as insulin and estrogen, which have been linked to an increased risk of cancer (specifically for women). It functions by facilitating the growth of cancer cells, as well as by promoting the development of new blood vessels that cancer cells need to grow and spread.
So, in a nutshell, extra weight is a major risk factor for cancer, and it’s important to be aware of the link between the two. However, it’s also important to remember that not everyone who is obese will develop cancer, and many other factors can affect your risk. If you’re concerned about your cancer risk, it’s vital to talk to a healthcare professional. They will be able to assess your individual risk and advise you on steps you can take to reduce it.
How to Reduce Your Cancer Risk?
I understand that considering your risk of cancer due to extra fat tissue can be daunting, especially if you’ve been trying to lose weight (either short-term or for what seems like your entire life). However, it’s important to remember that you can take steps to reduce your risk. According to a study, it is estimated that around 32% of cancer may be avoidable by changes in diet. So, even making small changes to your diet can have a significant impact on your health as well as your risk of developing cancer.
In addition to diet, maintaining a healthy weight is also crucial in reducing your risk of cancer. Remember that just a 5% loss in your body weight can dramatically change your risk for multiple chronic disease and significantly reduces inflammation (the thing we think causes cancer). When you decrease extra fat tissue, your body functions optimally and is able to better fight off disease. If you are carrying excess weight and are looking to lose weight, I offer a holistic weight loss program that can help you reach your goals in a safe and healthy way. You may even check out
#1 reason why my clinic is different so that you feel more comfortable and confident with your decision. I have helped countless women lose weight and improve their overall health, and I would be more than happy to help you too.
Meanwhile, here are some general tips that may help you reduce your risk of cancer:
1. Eat a Healthy Diet
A healthy diet is one that is rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains and low in processed foods, red meat, and sugar. You may also add some healthy fats, such as olive oil, to your diet and avoid unhealthy fats, such as trans fats. Remember, moderation is key, so don’t go overboard with any one food group, and I recommend speaking with a clinical weight loss professional so they can help you tailor your diet to your specific needs.
2. Exercise Regularly
Engaging in regular physical activity is great for your overall health and can help reduce your risk of cancer. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercises, such as brisk walking, most days of the week or a higher intensity exercise for 50 minutes 3 times a week. If you’re not used to exercising, start slow and build up gradually. Maybe just a 10 minute walk today?
3. Avoid Alcohol and Tobacco
Limiting your alcohol intake and avoiding tobacco products are two of the best things you can do for your health. If you do drink alcohol, limit yourself to one drink per day for women and if you smoke, quit or decrease the amount as soon as possible. Smoking is the leading cause of preventable death in the world, so quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health. Often in insurance companies will supply nicotine replacement products for FREE!
The Bottom Line
Cancer is a serious disease, and obesity is a prominent risk factor for cancer. So taking steps to maintain a healthy weight is crucial in reducing your risk. If you are looking for the
best weight loss programs in Spokane, look no further and book an appointment with me today. I offer a holistic weight loss program that is tailored to your specific needs and can help you reach your weight loss goals in a safe and healthy way. Girl, you got this!
