The foods we eat can contribute to various types of cancer. Focusing on healthy, immune system-boosting foods can help reduce the risk of cancer and other chronic diseases that stem from a poor diet and an unhealthy lifestyle. Some foods are high on the list for fighting cancer and can be incorporated into a well balanced, nutritious diet.
Avocados and Oral Cancer
Avocados are a top food to fight cancer because they are loaded with antioxidants. Hass avocados (the kind with a dark bumpy outer layer) have been found to help prevent cancer of the mouth, tongue and throat (oral cancer). Preliminary research led by Steven M. D'Ambrosio, a member of Ohio State's Comprehensive Cancer Center, revealed that beneficial phytochemicals in dark fruit may be the source of the benefit, stopping cancerous cells from growing. Avocados might stop oral cancer from developing because the nutrients increase the amount of reactive oxygen in the cells. According to Dr. D'Ambrosio, "We think these phytochemicals either stop the growth of precancerous cells in the body or they kill the precancerous cells without affecting normal cells. Our study focuses on oral cancer, but the findings might have implications for other types of cancer."
Foods with Sulforaphane
Foods that contain high levels of sulforaphane could protect from a variety of cancers. Broccoli, brussel sprouts, cabbage and cauliflower are among the list of top foods with this chemical. The effect of sulforaphane found in vegetables has been linked to preventing breast, pancreatic and lung cancer. Researchers continue to explore the benefits of sulforaphane in foods that can fight cancer.
Grapes
Eating grapes and consuming grape-based products are two great ways to fight cancer. The protective effect comes from resveratrol found in the skins of the grapes. A study published in the Journal of Nutrition, July 2009, concludes that grapes economically and efficiently can reduce the chances of a variety of cancers. According to the authors, "Grapes and grape-based products are one such class of dietary products that have shown cancer chemopreventive potential and are also known to improve overall human health."
Mushrooms and Green Tea
Mushrooms and green tea have recently been studied in combination for fighting breast cancer. A study published in the International Journal of Cancer, March 15, 2009, shows that consuming mushrooms and green tea is linked to lower rates of breast cancer in women. Researchers studied 2,000 women in China to find the benefits of eating mushrooms and drinking green tea for fighting cancer.
