Are the contents of your childs lunch box a possible cause of cancer?

I hope you all have been enjoying the lovely sunshine we have had recently, at long last summer has come back (I have probably jinked it now by saying that).

Obesity

Unfortunately our nation is getting fatter. 1 in 4 adults are currently obese and this figure is not getting any better. It is one of Britain's biggest health problems. Being obese can cause a number of health problems including diabetes, heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, infertility and depression. Obesity also contributes to one third of cancers of the colon, breast, kidney and stomach.

The best way to help reduce obesity is to reduce calorie intake and increase physical activity, it really is that simple and not rocket science. Just by making small changes to your diet and getting active will help reduce your waist line. Obesity is also becoming a major problem among children.

Children don't tend to do as much sport at school and have a tendency to sit and play computer games or watch television more than they did in the past. I remember when I was younger I was either out on my bike, playing with friends and running around all over the place it's no wonder we were a lot fitter in 'my generation'

Children risk cancer by eating salami and ham, warns charity

I read in the news today (The Guardian) that giving processed ham and other processed meats to children can increase the risk of cancer. The World Cancer Research Fund claims that if children get into unhealthy eating habits when they are younger they run the risk of developing cancer in later life. I do think there needs to be more research into this but it is good to be aware. Trying to eat as natural as possible is the best way. Even though it is not always easy it is best to try and make all your own foods so you know exactly what goes into it.

Exercise and Modern Living

One thing is certain most people do not get enough exercise in their ordinary daily routines. With all of the advances of modern technology they have made life easier, more comfortable and much less physically demanding. Our bodies need activity, especially if they are carrying around too much fat. There are two main ways to increase the number of calories you expend:

Start a regular exercise program if you do not have one already. Increase the amount of physical activity in your daily routine.

The best way to control your weight is a combination of the above. The sum total of calories used over time will help regulate your weight as well as keep you physically fit.

Before looking at what kind of regular exercise program is best, let's look at how you can increase the amount of physical activity in your daily routine.

• Gardening on weekends and house work can be considered an extra bonus to getting more active.
• Walk to your shop instead of using the car. When doing your weekly shopping park a far as possible from the door and walk. Park several streets from the office and walk the rest of the way. Walk up the stairs instead of using the lift; start with one flight of steps and gradually increase.
• Change your attitude toward movement. Instead of considering an extra little walk or trip to the files an annoyance, look upon it as an added fitness boost. Look for opportunities to use your body. Bend, stretch, reach, move, lift and carry.

These little changes do have an effect. Alone, each does not burn a huge amount of calories but when added together they can result in a sizable amount of energy used over the course of the day. Part 2 to follow next week.


Take care for now.

Jo x

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