Buying certified organic foods really comes down to affordability, as no organics are banned from cancer patients without dietary restraints. Organic foods decrease the exposure of pesticides and related chemicals to the cancer patient, and these foods are least likely to contain preservatives or toxic additives. The Cancer Project promotes the scientific findings produced by the Environmental Working Group with foods that should be purchased as organically grown, versus the foods that are okay to buy non-organic. As always, a plant-based diet is key while following proper food handling, safety and sanitation practices that will prevent cross-contamination, food borne illness and infection.
Fruit
All fruits are acceptable foods when purchased as organically grown. However, apples, cherries, grapes, nectarines, peaches, pears, raspberries and strawberries are known to have the highest concentrations of pesticide residues when bought non-organically grown. The American Cancer Society notes that the organically grown types may have more available nutrients, yet any ability to prevent, cure or treat cancer has not been found.
Vegetables
Any organic vegetable is an acceptable food for cancer patients. However, bell peppers, celery, potatoes and spinach are among the highest in concentrated pesticide residues when purchased non-organically grown. The Environmental Working Group's list of pesticide residues suggests that these items are best placed in priority when shopping for organics. Other vegetables may have more nutrients and antioxidants properties when purchased organically, but they tend to be rather expensive.
Soy Products
Soy products in their most natural form are approved in moderation for cancer patients. According to Susan G. Komen for the Cure, breast cancer survivors have, on average, a 3 percent lower risk of recurrence and death than their non-soy eating cohorts. This is based on whole soy products such as tofu, tempeh and soy milk rather than processed foods that use small amounts of soy in their products.
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