THE ANTI-CANCER DIET: Foods that prevent cancer
Most
experts agree that a specific diet, that could assure people a cancer free life
does not yet exist. However, there is a way of eating that you can use to
reduce your risk of cancer. The following are some of the fruits and drinks
that you may consider including in your diet in order to fight cancer, thanks
to Everyday Health and WebMD sites.
Garlic:
Various
studies have established that people who eat more garlic are less likely to
develop varied cancers, especially in digestive organs such as esophagus,
stomach and colon. The pungent bulbs have ingredients that may keep cancer
cells from multiplying. Eating a segment a day may be helpful.
Berries:
These
contain particularly powerful antioxidants, meaning they can stop a naturally
occurring process in the body that creates radicals that can damage your cells.
Elements in berries may also prevent cancer cells from growing abnormally. So
as part of your anti-cancer diet, include a handful of favorite blueberries,
blackberries or strawberries, among others.
Tomatoes:
Some
research has found that tomatoes contain a particularly high concentration of
an effective antioxidant called lycopene. This phytochemical found in cooked
tomatoes and tomato products, such as sauce, has been shown to slow the growth
of breast, lung and endometrial tumors and to reduce prostate, stomach and
pancreatic cancer risks. The juicy red orbs can help protect the DNA in your
cells from damage that can result in cancer.
Cruciferous
Vegetables:
Contains
broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower. These may play a role in reducing breast
cancer risks in premenopausal women. Among their many benefits, cruciferous
veggies supply abundant isothiocyanates. These phytochemicals may help increase
certain enzymes that detoxify cancer-promoting chemicals, help slow the growth
of tumors and encourage cancer cells to die.
Green
Tea:
Both
green and black teas contain catechins, but there are more antioxidants in the
former. Catechins may help prevent cancer by keeping free radicals from
damaging cells, among others. These antioxidants can shrink tumors and reduce
tumor cell growth. Some studies have also linked drinking tea to a lower risk
of cancer. You may, thus, want to consider a cup or more in your anti-cancer
diet.
Whole
Grains:
According
to the American Institute for Cancer Research, whole grains have many elements
that might lower your risk of cancer, including fiber and antioxidants. It was
found in a study including about half a million people that eating more whole
grains might lower the risk of colorectal cancer, making them a top item in the
category of foods to fight cancer. Examples of whole grains include oatmeal,
barley, brown rice, whole-wheat bread and pasta.
Turmeric:
According
to the American Cancer Society, this orange-colored spice contains curcumin
that might be useful in reducing cancer risk as it can inhibit growth of some
kinds of cancer cells and shrink tumors in some animals. This spice is readily
available and you can use it in a variety of recipes.
Leafy
Green Vegetables:
Leafy
green vegetables like spinach and lettuce contain antioxidants, beta-carotene
and lutein. These nutrients are also found in vegetables that are more
traditionally eaten cooked, like collard, mustard greens and kale. According to
the American Institute for Cancer Research, some lab studies have found that
chemicals in these foods may limit the growth of some kinds of cancer cells.
Grapes:
The
skin of red grapes is a rich source of an antioxidant known as resveratrol.
Processed products such as grape juice and red wine also contain this
antioxidant. According to National Cancer Institute, this antioxidant is useful
in keeping cancer from beginning or spreading. It also limits the growth of
many kinds of cancer cells, for instance, moderate amounts of red wine have
been linked to a lower risk of prostate cancer.
Beans:
Some
beans, especially pinto and red kidney, are exceptional sources of antioxidants
and you should consider including in your anti-cancer diet. According to the
American Cancer Society, beans contain high fiber that may help reduce cancer
risks.
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