Cooking For A Cure

It’s a fact. The lifestyle choices we make can dramatically influence our likelihood to prevent or deter the progression of cancer and other chronic diseases. Registered Dietitian Sarah Fronza says the recipe is simple. Eat plants. Manage stress. And get moving.

According to the Oregon Partnership for Cancer Control’s Breast Health Task Force, by the year 2030, 1 in 2 men and 1 in 3 women will be diagnosed with some form of cancer over the course of their lifetime. The American Institute for Cancer Research estimates that overall, about one-third of cancers could be prevented by maintaining a healthy weight, focusing on a low fat plant based diet, and exercising at least 30 minutes a day.

“We all have a choice in this,” says Fronza.

“It’s not only those with family history that should be concerned about chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, osteoporosis and diabetes,” says Fronza. “Everyone can benefit from a healthy diet and regular exercise.” For cancer survivors, the benefits are even greater. “Cancer survivors are at increased risk for second cancers,” says Fronza. “Taking steps to reduce the odds of recurrence can greatly improve a survivor’s quality of life.”

Though the tenants to living healthfully are simple, people often need help in figuring out just how to do it. Exercise is often the easiest place to begin, since any movement at all is beneficial. Nutrition guidelines are however, sometimes more difficult to unravel.

“The field of nutrition progresses rapidly,” says Fronza. “We know a lot more about what the individual can do to reduce their disease risk just by changing their diet.” Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes have all been shown to have important nutrients and other disease-fighting substances.”

“I love the idea that people have control over their own health,” says Fronza. “I’m just a facilitator.

Article Provided by:
Sarah Fronza, Registered Dietitian at Wellspring in Woodburn
For more information visit iamwellspring.com or call (971) 983-5200.