Add Some Spice
Turmeric is a spice grown in India and tropical regions of Asia. It has long been used in Chinese and Indian medicine to aid digestion and liver function, relieve arthritis pain, and regulate menstruation. Studies now suggest that turmeric has healing powers that extend to cancer.
Animal and laboratory research have indicated that curcumin (an antioxidant that is an active ingredient in turmeric) has anti- cancer effects. Researchers observed that curcumin interferes with several molecular pathways involved in cancer development, growth, and spread.
There is still a great deal of research needed to fully determine if – and how – curcumin impacts cancer prevention and treatment. However, MayoClinic.com states, “Research suggests that curcumin may prevent cancer, slow the spread of cancer, make chemotherapy more effective, and protect healthy cells from damage by radiation therapy.” So add a little spice of turmeric to your cold dishes, eggs, veggies, and yogurt. You can even brew turmeric tea.
Get Screened & Know Your Body
Contrary to what some people think, ignorance is not bliss. This especially applies to cancer. Early detection greatly increases a patient’s chances of survival. The American Cancer Society recommends that people (even those with no symptoms) should be screened for breast, cervical, and colorectal cancers. This is because, usually, when a patient has symptoms, the cancer has already spread (metastasized). In fact, cervical and colorectal screenings are able to find growths that can be removed before they develop into cancer.
Talk to your health care provider about which cancer screening tests are right for you, and when you should get them. The United States Preventative Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends getting screened for different cancers at different times (depending on your age and family history). Generally speaking, starting at the age of 40, women should undergo yearly mammograms. A Clinical Breast Exam (CBE) should be conducted every three years on women under the age of 40, and yearly for women 40 and over. Due to family history, genetic tendencies, and other factors, some women should be screened with Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) – in addition to mammograms. It is also important for women to personally know how their breasts look and feel. By conducting a periodic Breast Self-Exam (BSE), women of all ages can inform their doctors of sudden breast-related changes.
The biblical concept of “sowing and reaping” extends to our bodies. If we sow wholesome foods and habits that increase our wellness, we are more likely to reap a longer, healthier life. So now that you know better, do better. Eat right, exercise often, and take better care of your body. Cancer is now a leading cause of death in the United States (only second to heart disease). But, applying wisdom to your daily lifestyle decisions might save your life. 
