Cancer is a malignant tumor formed by uncontrolled and purposeless growth of cells in the body. The new copies of cancer cells lead to the development of aggressive tumors, which can spread to other parts of the body.
Heart disease is any affliction that interferes with the heart's ability to function normally. In the United States, coronary heart disease, such as heart attack and heart pain, remains the main form of heart disease and is the leading cause of death. One of the best ways to prevent heart disease and certain cancers is to eat foods high in fiber and low in fat.
Flaxseeds
Flaxseeds and flaxseed oil contain alpha-linolenic acid that your body converts into omega-3 fatty acid -- a type of polyunsaturated fats -- which has been shown to have cancer-fighting properties as well as prevent heart disease, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Alpha-linolenic acid in flaxseeds promote apoptosis, or programmed cell-death, in breast, prostate and colon cancer cells lines, notes Iowa State University. It can also ward off heart disease by lowering blood levels of cholesterol and triglycerides.
Soy Foods
Soy foods, such as soy milk and soy flour, must be desirable in a healthy diet due to the anticarcinogenic and cardio-protective effects of soy. The impact of soy on cancer risk is probably due to the presence of soy isoflavones, a class of phytoestrogens, according to the Cornell University. Soy may also promote your heart's health by lowering levels of LDL, or "bad" cholesterol.
Whole Grains
The soluble fiber from whole grains may be protective against some cancers, especially colon cancer. It attracts water and turns to gel-like substance during digestion; this gel may bind to carcinogens and other harmful compounds in the gastrointestinal tract and helps eliminate them from your body. Whole-grain products, such as oat bran, are also able to moderately lower the risk for coronary heart disease through lowering cholesterol, according to an article written by Jane U. Edwards at North Dakota State University.
References
- OncoLink: Breast Cancer: The Basics
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Omega-3 Fatty Acids
- Iowa State University: The Health Benefits of Functional Foods
- Cornell University: Estrogen & Breast Cancer Risk: Factors of Exposure
- Cornell University: Whole Grains, Fiber, And Breast Cancer Risk
- North Dakota State University: Whole Grains: Agriculture to Health
