It is well-known that if an overweight person loses weight, there are many health benefits achieved. But, did you know that losing weight can even reduce your risk of some cancers? The newest findings have finally shown that overweight women can reduce their risk of breast cancer simply by losing a small percentage of their body weight. Read on to learn more about these newly-released study results and how they can affect you.
The Study Results
This research study was published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, and was performed on over 400 women in the postmenopausal stage (the group at highest risk of developing breast cancer). The end result showed that there was a significant link between weight loss and the risk factors for cancer. It is important to remember, however, that this study was performed on women and pertains only to cancers that occur due to female hormone levels – i.e., breast cancer. The fact that cancer risk can be reduced in those who lose some of their body weight does not apply to other forms of cancer.
The Link Between Cancer and Weight Loss
The reasoning behind the findings has been determined as a link between being overweight and having an incorrect level of estrogen. For those with higher levels of estrogen, the risk of acquiring cancers associated with high levels of estrogen are higher. The study essentially shows that weight loss can result in a better regulation of estrogen levels within the body. The domino effect is that the regulated hormone levels reduces the risk of cancer because of the weight loss.
How Much Weight Loss Does it Take to Reduce the Risk of Cancer?
If you know that weight loss is associated with a lower cancer risk, it is likely the first thing you will wonder is exactly how much weight loss it really takes to reduce your risk of cancer. That’s really the beauty of this study’s findings – it doesn’t have to be a massive amount of weight to see an actual decrease in the risk factor. In fact, losing as little as 5% of your body weight can help regulate hormone levels and reduce your risk of cancer. This means, for a 200-pound woman, losing only ten pounds. To achieve this weight loss, which will not only reduce your risk of female cancers, but will also allow you to achieve better overall health, making minor changes over the long term is the best bet. Limit carbonated beverages, cut down on snacking (or replace high calorie snacks with lower calorie options), and increase water intake to achieve a small weight loss goal over time, and ultimately reduce your risk of developing cancer associated with weight.
If you choose to replace high calorie snacks with lower calorie versions that taste wonderful, opt for ThinSlim Foods muffins and brownies! We offer great-tasting snacks that will help you achieve your weight loss goals!