Lifestyle Factors and Connection to Cancer

June 3, 2024

Our lifestyle plays a crucial role in our overall health. Great nutrition is paramount, but examining our lifestyle choices as well will make a greater impact for optimal health. It is beneficial to include exercise, stretching, quality sleep and laughter in our lives and avoid, or better yet, eliminate harmful chemicals, toxins in the body and EMF exposure. Knowing and implementing protective health measures through daily routines can make a profound difference for a healthy vibrant life. This class is led by Dr. Jana Schmidt, who guides us through these essential practices for optimal well-being.

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Cancer is influenced by a wide range of factors, and lifestyle choices play a crucial role in either preventing or contributing to its development. In a recent class, Dr. Jana Schmidt explored ten key categories that impact cancer risk, offering both awareness and solutions. Here’s an overview of the critical insights she shared.

Water Quality and Cancer Risk

Water is essential for overall health, but its quality matters significantly. Many U.S. water treatment plants use aluminum and chlorine to purify water. Unfortunately, chlorine interacts with other contaminants, creating carcinogenic byproducts. Additionally, non-NSF-certified bleach used in water treatment can contain heavy metals, asbestos, benzene, and PCBs—known cancer-causing agents.

What to Do:

  • Test your water for contaminants.
  • Use high-quality filtration systems, such as reverse osmosis, gravity-fed filters (e.g., Berkey, Alexa Pure), and whole-house filtration systems.
  • Drink distilled water regularly and consider structuring it by allowing it to sit outside or praying over it, which may alter its molecular structure beneficially.

Iodine Deficiency and Endocrine Disruptors

Chlorine, fluoride, and bromine—common in water, processed foods, and personal care products—compete with iodine in the body, potentially leading to deficiencies. Iodine is crucial for thyroid health, brain function, and immune support, and its deficiency has been linked to increased cancer risk.

How to Reduce Exposure:

  • Avoid processed foods containing brominated flour.
  • Use non-fluoride toothpaste.
  • Opt for pools that use ozone purification, copper, or colloidal silver instead of chlorine.
  • Increase iodine intake naturally with foods like seaweed or through supplementation.

Exercise and Immune System Stimulation

Physical activity plays a vital role in reducing cancer risk by regulating hormones, improving digestion, and strengthening the immune system. Exercise also promotes detoxification by moving the lymphatic system, preventing stagnation.

Recommended Activities:

  • Daily stretching, yoga, or brisk walks.
  • Strength training, rebounding (mini-trampoline), and high-intensity exercise several times a week.
  • Lymphatic stimulation through dry brushing and alternating hot-cold therapy (sauna and cold plunges).

Environmental Toxins and Cancer Risks

Everyday exposure to chemicals in household products, personal care items, and food increases the risk of cancer. The U.S. has weak regulations, allowing thousands of chemicals with little safety oversight.

Top Chemicals to Avoid:

  • Phthalates (found in plastics, shampoos, soaps)
  • Coal tar dyes (used in processed foods and cosmetics)
  • Glyphosate (common herbicide linked to cancer, found in non-organic grains, soy, and processed foods)

Protective Measures:

  • Choose organic food and avoid GMO crops.
  • Use natural household cleaners and personal care products.
  • Filter drinking and cooking water.

Detoxing from Heavy Metals and Chemicals

Detoxification supports the liver and immune system in eliminating accumulated toxins that contribute to disease.

Effective Detox Strategies:

  • Liver cleanses with fresh green apple juice.
  • Regular parasite cleanses to improve digestion and immunity.
  • Natural binders like chlorella, cilantro, and apple pectin powder.
  • High-antioxidant foods like sprouts and microgreens, which help remove toxins like dioxins.

Sleep and Cancer Prevention

Quality sleep strengthens the immune system and enhances natural killer cell activity, which helps fight cancer. People who consistently sleep fewer than six hours per night may be at higher risk.

Tips for Better Sleep:

  • Follow a natural circadian rhythm.
  • Reduce blue light exposure before bedtime.
  • Sleep on a grounding sheet to enhance recovery.

Electromagnetic Fields (EMFs) and Health Risks

Modern technology exposes people to high levels of EMFs, which have been linked to oxidative stress, cognitive decline, and even cancer.

Ways to Reduce EMF Exposure:

  • Use wired internet instead of Wi-Fi.
  • Keep cell phones away from the body, especially at night.
  • Replace smart appliances with traditional models.
  • Avoid using AirPods and metal-frame glasses, which amplify EMFs.

Laughter, Positivity, and Cancer Prevention

Emotional well-being significantly impacts immune function. Laughter and positive social interactions have been shown to increase natural killer cells, which help the body fight cancer.

Encouraging Positivity:

  • Surround yourself with supportive, uplifting people.
  • Engage in activities that bring joy.
  • Watch comedies or engage in laughter therapy.

Dental Health and Cancer Risk

Oral health is directly linked to systemic health, and studies have found associations between gum disease and various cancers, including breast and liver cancer.

Key Considerations:

  • Maintain good oral hygiene with non-toxic products.
  • Be cautious about root canals, as they can harbor harmful bacteria linked to cancer development.
  • Seek biological dentistry for safer dental treatments.

Grounding and Cellular Healing

Grounding, or direct contact with the Earth's surface, has been shown to reduce inflammation, improve sleep, and enhance overall cellular function.

Ways to Ground:

  • Walk barefoot on natural surfaces.
  • Use grounding mats indoors.
  • Swim in natural bodies of water.

Final Thoughts

Every choice we make—from what we eat and drink to how we move, sleep, and manage stress—affects our cancer risk. By taking proactive steps to reduce toxins, improve nutrition, stay active, and embrace natural healing strategies, we can support our bodies in preventing disease and promoting long-term health.

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