Eating right kind of foods is the best preventive measure one can take for fighting cancer. But what are the cancer fighting foods? Read the article to know more about these.
The fact that poor, unhealthy diet can be a cause of cancer has been known for a long time. The National Cancer Institute also estimates that around 30 percent of all cancer deaths may be related to improper or unhealthy diet. So why not consider changing your eating habits and choices of foods. Enough of junk and fried foods, follow a good healthy diet enriched with all the foods and supplements. Eating healthy foods can be the best and easiest way to avoid cancer. Scroll down to find out more about the cancer-fighting foods and drinks.
Vegetables
People eating a vegetarian diet rich in green vegetables are said to have a lower risk of developing cancer. Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, and brussels sprouts are the best foods that fight cancer. These foods are rich in phytochemicals which can stimulate the body to release powerful toxin fighting chemicals. They are also rich in antioxidants like lutein and zeaxanthin, which can decrease the risk of prostate and other cancers. Spinach is also rich in antioxidants that can slow the oxidation reactions that may damage cells which increases the risk.
Carrots and tomatoes must also be included in the list. Carrots contain a lot of beta carotene and a substance called falcarinol which decreases the growth of cancer cells. On the other hand tomatoes are rich in an antioxidant called lycopene, that can curb the risk considerably. Free radicals are produced in our body due to excessive smoking, drinking alcohol or caffeine and also due to other pollutants. Free radicals are harmful and can increase the risk. Antioxidants present in vegetables and fruits play a significant role in fighting these free radicals. Apart from these including mushrooms, kale and sweet potatoes in your diet will be beneficial.
Fruits
Avocados are rich in potassium, beta carotene antioxidants like glutathione, which attack the cancer-causing free radicals in the body. Oranges and other citrus fruits, are rich in monoterpenes, which eradicate carcinogens out of the body. Grapes contain ellagic acid, that block the enzymes that induce cancer cell growth. Berries like cranberries, raspberries, blackberries and strawberries are also beneficial. These vitamin-rich fruits are not only rich in flavonoids but also rich in ellagic acid which is known to protect against colon cancers. Berries are also rich in vitamin C, antioxidants and anthocyanins which helps in cell repair, lowering the levels of estrogen and also aid the immune system to function at optimum level. Apart from these fruits, apples, and papayas are also known to inhibit growth of cancer cells.
Herbs
Herbs are a great form of curative and supplementary medicines used for treatments. Turmeric, a yellow colored herb has some effective anti-cancer properties. According to recent studies daily intake of turmeric can act as a liver tonic as it is rich in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can block cancer formation. Possessing antibacterial and antiviral properties, garlic is known to be a great cancer inhibitor and immunity booster. Even ginger and green tea make it to the list as they are rich in antioxidants that can block chemicals that cause DNA damage.
Some Other Foods
Beans, cereals, grains, and brown rice are also healthy. The fiber in these foods helps to get rid of harmful wastes and toxins out of the body. Flax seeds are good for women as they are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids and fibers which when consumed daily can slow the growth of tumor in breast cancer patients. Soy products like tofu, soy nuts and soy milk are rich in soflavones which can reduce the risk of breast and prostate cancer by protecting cells from the harmful effects of estrogen.
Make sure that you include a good mix of these foods in your diet and in appropriate quantity. Apart from this, proper changes in lifestyle like restricting smoking, alcohol and exercising regularly can go a long way in maintaining good health.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.