October is Breast Cancer Awareness month; research has shown that eating a healthy diet and getting regular exercise can help reduce your chances for getting cancer and many other non-communicable diseases. Make sure to practice a healthy lifestyle each day.

• Limit your intake of saturated fats, such as red meat. Eat more healthy fats, like fish, nuts and olive oil
• Fill up on fiber… Fruits, vegetables and whole grains, to be exact.
• Watch your alcohol intake. A glass of red wine or beer occasionally may actually benefit your health
• Exercise for at least 30 minutes, five times a week
• If you are at or above the age of 40, be sure to have a mammogram one time per year and breast self-exam monthly. Prevention is the best medicine!

A healthy weight also significantly contributes to health status. Seek a Registered Dietitian for a nutrition screening and assessment if you are at risk. For more information on cancer prevention and to learn about raising awareness, contact the American Cancer Society.