Scientists have been looking closely at the role of foods and nutrients for fighting cancer. One of the most powerful tools for maintaining good heath and curbing the risk of chronic disease is by eating a variety of fruits and vegetables. The American Cancer Society recommends eating a variety of healthy foods that include five or more servings daily to help prevent cancer.
Alpha Carotene
Eat fruits and vegetables with alpha carotene that include yellow and green varieties. Research results published November 22, 2010 in the "Archives of Internal Medicine" found a direct link between eating fruits and vegetables rich in the nutrient and risk of dying from all causes including cancer. The study, "Serum - Carotene Concentrations and Risk of Death among U.S. Adults," included 15,318 U.S. adults 20 years of age and older. The study looked at levels of alpha carotene in the bloodstream to discover the importance of the nutrient for fighting cancer and preventing premature death.
Flaxseed
Flaxseed added to the diet could help prevent prostate cancer. Research published in "Cancer Epidemiology and Biomarkers & Prevention," August 2008, concluded flaxseed is a safe and effective dietary addition for prostate cancer prevention. "Flaxseed Supplementation (Not Dietary Fat Restriction) Reduces Prostate Cancer Proliferation Rates in Men Presurgery", compared the impact of low fat diet to flaxseed oil in men scheduled for prostatectomy that started 30 days before surgery. The results found men given flaxseed had significantly lower rates of cancer proliferation, compared to men eating the low fat diet.
Curcumin
Curcumin contained in the Indian spice turmeric could help prevent colorectal cancer. Studies are ongoing in humans, but the spice shows some promise. The American Cancer Society says one of the problems with using curcumin for curbing overall cancer risk is that it is poorly absorbed in the body. However, the spice is well absorbed in cancer cells in the colon. Researchers are trying to find ways to increase the bioavailability of curcumin that, if used, is more likely to reduce colorectal cancer risk consumed as a whole herb.
Beans
The American Institute of Cancer research recommends beans as a top cancer fighting food. The legumes contain cancer protective chemicals known as phytonutrients; specifically saponins, protease inhibitors and phytic acid. Protease inhibitors play a special role in slowing the growth of tumors because they restrict the release of the enzyme protease from cancerous growths that destroy other cells and promote metastasis. Beans also add fiber to the diet that can also lower the risks of colon cancer.
Whole Grains
Whole grain consumption can help prevent obesity that fuels cancer. The American Cancer Research Institute explains whole grains are rich in phytonutrients, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals that protect cells in the body from damage that can lead to cancer. Whole grains include the germ, bran and endosperm and include foods like brown rice, popcorn, oatmeal, tortilla chips, wheat breads and wheat pastas. Fruits, vegetables, beans and whole grains are foods that contain nutrients for fighting cancer.
