Overview
No single food can help to prevent cancer. The right combination of foods may make a difference. Include at least two-third of plant-based foods and not more than one-third of animal protein. Check out better and worse food choices. Fruits and vegetables contain anti-cancer substances. These foods can help lower the risk by helping you to reach and maintain healthy body weight. Obesity increases the risk of multiple cancers, including colon, esophagus, and kidney cancers. Include a variety of dark green, red, yellow, and orange fruits as well as vegetables in your diet.
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Eating habits may affect various aspects of health, including the risk of developing chronic diseases such as heart diseases, diabetes, and cancer. Cancer, in particular, is believed to be influenced by food habits. On the other hand, many foods contain beneficial compounds that could help decrease the growth of cancer. There are also several studies showing that a high intake of certain foods could be associated with a low risk of the disease. So, let’s have a look at such foods that may lower the risk of cancer.
Green tea contains an anti-cancer substance. It is believed that Green tea curbs or prevent the development of cancer in the colon, liver, breast, lungs, skin, and prostate cells. It is also associated with low risks for bladder, stomach, and pancreatic cancers.
Grapes and grape juice, including purple as well as red grapes, contain resveratrol. It has antioxidants as well as anti-inflammatory properties. It is believed to prevent the damage that can trigger cancer in cells/ tissues.
Beans are good for overall well-being. They may help fight cancer. They contain several potent phytochemicals that may protect the body cells and tissues against the damage that can lead to cancer. These phytochemical substances slow down tumor growth and prevent tumors from releasing substances that damage nearby healthy cells/ tissues.
The components in Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, and kale may help your body to fight against colon cancer, breast cancer, lung cancer, and cervix cancer. These vegetables can make an excellent stir fry.
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Berries including Strawberries and Raspberries contain a phytochemical called ellagic acid. This powerful antioxidant may fight cancer by deactivating certain cancer-causing substances and slowing the growth of cancer cells. The antioxidants in berries have wide value in supporting overall health. Antioxidants may help fight cancer by cleansing the body of free radicals before they start destroying the body cells and tissues. Top oatmeal, cold cereal, yogurt, and salad with blueberries to boost your berry intake.
Studies have shown that carrots are linked to a decreased risk of certain types of cancer. An analysis says that carrots may reduce the risk of stomach cancer by up to 28%. Another study has found that a higher intake of carrots was associated with 19% lower odds of developing prostate cancer. A study has revealed that smokers who did not consume carrots were at high risk of developing lung cancer, compared to those who consumed carrots twice a week. Include carrots in diet as a salad or side dish to reduce the risk of cancer.
Turmeric is a popular spice known for its health-promoting properties. It enhances the flavor and color of the food. The active ingredient Curcumin has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties. During a test-tube study, it was found that curcumin curbs colon lesions and colon cancer cells by targeting a specific enzyme responsible for cancer growth. Another study showed that curcumin helps to kill head and neck cancer cells. Curcumin has been effective in slowing down the growth of lung cancer, breast cancer, and prostate cancer cell. For the best results, consume at least 1 to 3 teaspoons (1–3 grams) of turmeric powder daily. Also, add black pepper to help boost its absorption.
High in fiber as well as heart-healthy fats, flaxseed can be a useful addition to your diet. Study has shown that it may help to decrease cancer growth and destroy the cancer cells. It also decreases the levels of specific markers that measure tumor growth, as well as an increase in cancer cell death. Flaxseed is high in fiber. Hence, it is protective against colorectal cancer. Add one tablespoon (10 gram) of ground flaxseed into your food daily. Mix it into smoothies, sprinkle it over cereal and yogurt, or add it to baked goods.
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Tomatoes contain a high amount of Lycopene which is responsible for its vibrant red color as well as its anti-cancer properties. Several studies have found that an increased intake of tomatoes could lead to a reduced risk of prostate cancer. High intake of raw tomatoes, cooked tomatoes were associated with a reduced risk of prostate cancer. Increase your intake by including tomatoes in your diet. You can consume it in the form of sandwiches, salads, sauces, or pasta dishes.
The active component in garlic known as allicin can destroy the cancer cells in multiple test-tube studies. Several studies have found an association between garlic intake and lower risk of certain types of cancer. Consuming Allium vegetables such as garlic, onions, leeks, and shallots decrease the risk of cancer. Another study found that people who ate garlic, as well as fruits, yellow vegetables, green vegetables, and onions, were less likely to develop tumors. Include 2–5 grams (one clove) of fresh garlic into your diet daily and take advantage of its health-promoting properties.