Skin cancer refers to numerous diseases in which abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in your skin. If left untreated, skin cancer can spread throughout your body tissues and organs. Melanoma is the most serious form of skin cancer, according to the American Cancer Society, causing roughly 10,850 deaths every year. While foods can't cure skin cancer, a healthy diet, inclusive of certain foods, may help reduce your risk for the disease and increases your chances of full recovery.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables provide valuable amounts of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants---nutrients that help protect your body from cancer-causing toxins. Fruits and vegetables rich in the antioxidants vitamin C and vitamin E may help reduce your risk for skin cancer, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C include red bell peppers, berries, citrus fruits, kiwi, cantaloupe, tomatoes, spinach, kale, brussels sprouts, broccoli, baked potatoes with skin, sweet potatoes and winter squash. Avocados, blackberries, cranberries, guava, papaya, peaches and mangoes provide valuable amounts of vitamin E. Incorporate a variety of colorful, fresh fruits and vegetables into your meals and snacks regularly for maximum benefits.
Healthy Fats
Healthy fat sources, including nuts, seeds and fatty fish, enhance brain function, food texture and the absorption of certain nutrients. They also provide valuable alternatives to saturated fat sources, such as butter and red meat, which may increase your risk for certain forms of cancer. According to a study published in the "International Journal of Epidemiology" in July, 2008, people who eat a Mediterranean diet, rich in healthy fats, demonstrate lower rates of skin cancer compared to people who do not. After analyzing the diets and lifestyle habits, including sun exposure rates, of over 300 hospital patients, researchers concluded that regular fish intake as part of a Mediterranean-style diet provides protection from skin cancer. To reap potentially similar benefits, incorporate fatty fish, such as salmon, albacore tuna, sardines, lake trout, mackerel, halibut and herring, into your diet regularly. Nuts, such as pine nuts and walnuts, olives, olive oil and canola oil, may provide similar benefits.
Flaxseed
Flaxseed is another valuable source of healthy, unsaturated fats. In addition, plant substances that occur naturally in flaxseed may help prevent cancer, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. As valuable sources of omega-3 fatty acids, flaxseed may also help prevent or alleviate inflammation associated with cancer. For maximum absorption, choose ground flaxseed over whole varieties. Enjoy flaxseed on its own or incorporated into cereals, yogurt, baked goods and smoothies regularly for best results.
Whole Grains
Whole grains are grains that have not been stripped of valuable nutrients and fiber during food processing. Mediterranean diets often emphasize whole grains. Whole grains can also enhance your nutritional wellness, immune system and energy levels during cancer treatment and recovery. Replace foods made with enriched grains, such as white bread, with whole grain equivalents regularly for maximum benefits. Examples of nutritious whole grains include millet, spelt, oats, bulgur, whole wheat, brown rice, wild rice, popcorn and barley.
