Jerusalem Post

ByDORON KUPERSTEIN

Understanding how cancer develops, preventing chronic inflammation, supporting the mitochondria, and adjusting lifestyle habits – all help reduce risks and strengthen the body’s natural defenses.

Is it possible to “never get cancer”? The scientific answer is that there is no absolute guarantee, but there are proven ways to significantly reduce the risk. Today, research describes cancer not as a disease of “one rogue cell,” but as a condition in which the entire body tissue undergoes change: Metabolism becomes disrupted, chronic inflammation increases, the immune system weakens, and the mitochondria – the cell’s power stations – stop functioning optimally.
When the mitochondria are damaged, oxidative stress rises, the cells’ repair ability decreases, cellular death mechanisms (apoptosis) become disrupted, and the biological environment becomes more favorable to malignant changes. Therefore, a modern approach to reducing cancer risk includes supporting metabolism, immune defense, the body’s cleansing systems, and inflammatory balance.
Cancer develops when cells undergo genetic mutations and lose control over cell division and death. Factors such as smoking, processed food, air pollution, excess weight, chronic stress, or genetic predisposition – all increase the likelihood of accumulating damage. Changes in cellular metabolism also cause cancer to “bypass” normal energy pathways, grow rapidly, and evade the immune system. Therefore, the body’s environment – not just the single cell – is a central factor in the development of the disease.

Despite the complexity of cancer, there are practical steps that reduce risks over time.

1. Reducing processed foods: Especially sugars and white flour
Many studies show that a diet rich in processed foods increases inflammation, metabolic load, and insulin resistance – all linked to a higher risk of cancer. These foods sharply raise blood sugar and insulin levels, creating an environment that supports abnormal cell growth.

A significant reduction in processed products creates a more “clean” internal ground – less inflammatory, less load on the liver, and less stress on the mitochondria.

2. Supporting mitochondria through intermittent fasting and low-carbohydrate nutrition
One of the mechanisms currently discussed in preventive medicine is increasing mitochondrial efficiency. Intermittent fasting (such as 16:8) and reduced-carbohydrate nutrition lower sharp blood sugar fluctuations, activate cellular cleansing mechanisms (autophagy), and reduce chronic inflammation.
The body “restores” its energy systems and improves its ability to cope with cellular damage. Not everyone is suited to extreme diet levels, but even narrowing the eating window and basing nutrition on quality proteins, healthy fats, and vegetables is beneficial.
3. Emphasis on antioxidants: Vegetables, fruits, spices, and medicinal herbs
Reducing oxidative load on the body prevents damage to mitochondria and DNA. Foods such as turmeric, green tea, rosemary, broccoli, berries, and herbs rich in polyphenols help reduce inflammation and improve liver detoxification pathways.
A plant-rich diet increases the body’s ability to destroy damaged cells, prevent mutations, and activate the immune system properly.
4. A movement-based lifestyle: Physical activity, sun, fresh air, and breathing
Daily physical activity increases blood flow, raises mitochondrial density, and strengthens the immune system.Controlled sun exposure helps produce vitamin D – a critical component in reducing inflammation and supporting immune function.Ventilation, deep breathing, and quality sleep improve tissue oxygenation and reduce exposure to environmental toxins.Even short exposures to “optimal stress” – such as cold showers – have been found to increase cellular resilience.

5. Monitoring excess iron and reducing toxin load
Excess iron in the body can accelerate oxidative reactions that cause DNA damage. Many are not aware that excessively high ferritin levels can be harmful. A simple blood test can indicate whether dietary adjustments or blood donation are needed.
At the same time, attention should be paid to chronic infections, high stress hormones, poor sleep, and impaired digestive function – all factors influencing long-term risk.