Cancer is a complex illness caused by a number of factors. Genetics, exposure to carcinogens and age all play roles. Nutrition also factors into some types of cancer: eating the wrong foods increases the risk, and eating the right foods lowers the risk. Strive to eat a healthy diet to prevent cancer and other chronic illnesses.
Plant-Based Influences
HelpGuide.org, a non-profit informational resource, recommends eating a plant-based diet to help prevent cancer. This bountiful diet includes fresh vegetables, beans, fruits and whole grains, all foods that come out of the earth. These foods are rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, which support the immune system. They also contain fiber, which lowers the risk of some types of cancer. Broccoli, cabbage, spinach, lima beans, blueberries, blackberries, oat bran and brown rice are considered especially helpful.
Simpler Is Better
The act of processing foods often strips them of their beneficial fiber and other nutrients. It also adds salt, chemicals, fat, sugar and calories. Eating foods that are close to their original state is your best bet for reducing cancer risk. Eat a whole apple instead of apple pie, a baked potato rather than french fries, a grilled chicken breast rather than chicken nuggets, and raw broccoli florets rather than a broccoli casserole. Eating unprocessed foods can also help you manage your weight, which is another way to reduce your risk of cancer.
Avoid Risky Foods
Some foods are felt to increase the risk of cancer. Fatty meats and high-fat dairy products can lead to weight gain and increased cancer risk. These foods should be avoided or severely limited in your diet. According to the American Dietetic Association, a high intake of salt is a risk factor for stomach cancer, so following a low-sodium diet is wise. When grilling food, cook it only until it is done rather than allowing it to become well-done or burned. Trim the fat from meat and avoid mashing hamburgers until the grease falls into the flame, as both practices can cause flames to rise and char the meat, which can render it carcinogenic.
Dietary Extras
If you are trying to modify your diet to lower your cancer risk, there are plenty of tasty foods you can choose. The Mayo Clinic lists soybeans, cold-water fish and green tea as possible cancer-risk reducers. Spices such as curry, garlic, rosemary and basil may also cut your risk. Eating a wide variety of healthy foods provides you with a large number of nutrients, which boost your immune system while warding off cancer and infection.
