Geisinger dietitians warn of obesity & cancer risk, offer healthy eating tips
DANVILLE – As the nation’s obesity epidemic worsens, Geisinger experts say people should pay very close attention to their weight and diets to limit the risk for certain cancers.
Obesity has been linked to a higher risk for colorectal, endometrial, gallbladder, kidney, pancreatic, prostate and breast cancer, said Saraswati Gandhi, RD.
“Other than smoking, one of the most beneficial things people can do to prevent cancer is keep their weight under control,” said Gandhi, a Geisinger clinical dietitian who specializes in cancer and diet. “For those already at a healthy weight, it’s important to be aware of sudden weight gain.”
Gandhi recommends:
- Limiting the consumption of red meat and avoiding processed meat.
- Using low fat dairy products.
- Limiting the consumption of calorie-dense drinks such as soda, alcohol and fruit drinks.
- Maintaining a healthy weight and keeping your Body Mass Index at 24 or less.
- Getting five servings of non-starchy fruits and vegetables every day.
- Participating in physical activities for at least 30 minutes five times a week.
- Limiting sodium intake to 2,400 milligrams a day.
To help people make healthy lifestyle changes, Geisinger’s registered dietitians use an individualized approach built around a person’s specific diet, wellness and fitness goals. Dietitians work in a partnership with the person to promote positive changes in exercise and eating behaviors.
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