It is no secret that the way we eat can either harm or help us, especially in this day of processed and fast-food consumption. The American Institute for Cancer Research's 1997 report on cancer and diet, created through evaluating more than 4,500 studies on the subject, has confirmed that a healthy diet can help reduce the risk of certain types of cancers. The Mayo Clinic states that eating five or more servings of fruits and veggies each day, along with adding beans and whole grains to our diets, is an excellent way to stave off or even possibly curtail the growth of cancer cells. Eating foods high in antioxidants, phytochemicals, folate, fiber, and other known free-radical fighters is an excellent way to raise the odds in the war against cancer. A wide variety of healthful foods will also boost your energy and contribute to overall well-being.
Cruciferous Vegetables
Broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, brussels sprouts and kale are excellent cancer fighters as they contain sulforaphane, which produces enzymes that deactivate free radicals. Because these vegetables contain powerful phytochemicals, they are able to help counteract colon and rectal cancer. The presence of lutein and zeaxanthin also helps with prostate cancer. Another ingredient, known as indole-3-carbinol, is a combatant against breast cancer due to its ability to convert cancerous estrogen into a more neutral version.
Broccoli is especially potent when it comes to fighting cancer. According to a study by the U.S. Agriculture Department, the more bitter the broccoli, the more glucoraphanin it contains, which is a strong anti-cancer agent. Broccoli sprouts are the best because they have 20 times more anti-carcinogenic properties than mature broccoli.
Carrots
Containing a high percentage of beta carotene, carrots are excellent for combating many types of cancer, including breast, prostate, bladder, intestine, stomach, lung, throat and mouth varieties. According to a study by the Danish Institute of Agriculture, carrots also contain falcarinol, which is another element that fights the development of cancerous tumors.
Avocados
Rich in the antioxidant glutathione, avocados help block the absorption of fats in the intestines. Containing more potassium than bananas and a high percentage of beta carotene, a diet that includes avocados helps protect the liver and other areas of the body that are vulnerable to cancerous growths.
Figs
The Institute of Physical and Chemical Research in Tokyo reported that benzaldehyde, an element found in figs, can help shrink tumors. Because figs contain vitamins A and C, along with magnesium and potassium, they are highly valued for their nutritional properties.
Flax
Known as an antioxidant that contains the omega-3 fatty acids, flax is believed to combat both colon cancer and heart disease.
Other Cancer-Fighting Foods
There are many more foods on the cancer-fighting list. By incorporating them into your diet, you stand a good chance of maintaining optimal health while subverting the invasion of cancer-forming cells. These foods include citrus fruits, red grapes, papayas, raspberries, nuts, seaweed, tomatoes, green tea, chili and jalapeno peppers and turmeric.
