At the age of 31, Dr. David Servan-Schreiber, clinical professor of psychiatry at the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine and co-founder of the Center for Integrative Medicine, was diagnosed with brain cancer. At the time, he was treated following the conventional protocol with chemotherapy and radiation and went into remission. It was the recurrence of his cancer seven years later that led him to examine how he could help his body defend itself against the illness. Changes in diet and lifestyle ensued.
Background
The human body is made up of many different types of cells. These cells continuously grow and divide to create new cells to allow the body to function. When cells become damaged or old, they die and are replaced with new cells. Cancer develops when this process is derailed, when the cell's DNA -- its genetic make-up -- is damaged or changed and the cells stop behaving normally. Cells may fail to die or start multiplying, forming a tumor. Every cell has the potential to turn into a cancer cell. However, it is possible to prevent cells from becoming cancerous. In his book "Anticancer: A New Way of Life," Servan-Schreiber describes how the body's defense mechanisms will help to prevent the disease or reduce the risk of re-occurrence. One way of activating the body's defenses is through diet.
Findings
According to Servan-Schreiber there are some foods that specifically protect against cancer. Many vegetables, including Brussels sprouts, cabbage, garlic, kale, leeks and onions play a role in preventing or inhibiting uncontrolled cell growth by more than 80 percent in certain cancers, such as brain, colon, lung and prostate. In their 2007 report, the authors of "Food, Nutrition, Physical Activity, and the Prevention of Cancer: a Global Perspective," a project of the World Cancer Research Fund in collaboration with the American Institute for Cancer Research, also emphasize that eating a variety of fruits and vegetables every day may help to protect against a number of cancers. In addition, daily intake of whole-grain foods, beans and legumes is recommended. Plant-based foods, not meat and other animal foods, should be the focus of your meals. Plant foods contain healthy amounts of fiber, vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals, and are generally low in calories. The report, "Most diets that are protective against cancer are mainly made up from foods of plant origin."
Further Recommendations
Other important guidelines include maintaining a healthy weight and limiting your intake of sugary drinks and refined starchy foods. Examples are products made from white flour, including pasta, bread, pizza, and white rice. Avoid foods high in sugar and fat, such as cake, cookies, pastries, and other baked goods. Don't eat processed meat, such as hot dogs, sausage, and lunch meats. Reduce your intake of red meat, limit alcohol, restrict salt and eliminate fast food.
Physical Activity
Physical activity deserves special mention, as being physically active has been shown to protect against cancer. The recommendation, therefore, is to exercise in the beginning for at least 30 minutes every day and, as your stamina increases, to work your way up to 60 minutes. In addition, limit your sedentary activities, such as watching television, playing video games or using your computer. Physical activity has the added bonus of protecting against overweight and obesity, and thus against the higher risk of cancer associated with these conditions.
References
- World Cancer Research Fund/American Institute for Cancer Research: Food, Nutrition, Physical activity, and the Prevention of Cancer: a Global Perspective; AICR; 2007
- "Anticancer: A New Way of Life"; David Servan-Schreiber, MD, PhD; 2008
