Cancer is a life-threatening disease that can attack any part of the body. It forms when mutated cells clump together and grow at a rapid pace. Tumors develop and "metastasize," spreading cancer to other areas of the body. Although there is no definite cure for cancer, many treatment options are available. Before treatment, there comes prevention. This can be done by eating beneficial foods.
Lycopene
Prostate cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer in males. According to the Mayo Clinic, it attacks approximately one in six men in the United States. In order to keep the prostate healthy, a substance called "lycopene" should be consumed. This is what gives certain fruits and vegetables their reddish pigment. Lycopene can be found in tomatoes, especially in sauce and ketchup, as well as watermelon and grapefruit.
Soy
Breast cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in women. If not detected early, it can quickly ravage the body. Eating soy and soy-based foods helps prevent breast cancer. Good sources include edamame, roasted soy nuts, tempeh, tofu, soy milk and soy yogurt.
Cruciferous Vegetables
Cruciferous vegetables have a substance in them called "sulforaphane" which can help reduce the chances of getting cancer. Examples of cruciferous vegetables include kale, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, cauliflower and cabbage.
Whole Grains
Fiber is a non-digestible substance that plays a number of roles in the body. It helps control appetite, it prevents overeating and helps keep your blood sugar levels regulated. Fiber offers another benefit that is important to the prevention of cancer: It promotes regularity by pushing wastes out of the colon. When this backed-up matter sits in the colon for long periods of time, the risk for cancer goes up. Whole grains like oat bran, oatmeal, whole wheat bread, whole wheat pasta and barley are all high in fiber. It can also be found in fruits and vegetables like pears, peas, apples, beans, figs and artichokes.
Berries
Berries are high in fiber and Vitamin-C, which is an antioxidant. Antioxidants help absorb and kill cancer-causing free radicals in the system. Specific berries to eat include raspberries, blueberries, strawberries and cranberries.
Vegetables
Dark green, leafy vegetables also can help prevent cancer. Examples are baby spinach, leaf lettuce, collards and romaine lettuce.
Garlic
Although it may not give you the freshest breath after you eat it, garlic can help prevent cancer.
