Cancer begins by attacking the cells of your body and can grow at an uncontrolled rate. More than 100 types of cancer exist, and many are named for the organs in which they originate, although the cancer might spread to several other body parts. The vast majority of cancers are treatable and preventable with changes to your lifestyle. According to the Cancer Project, 35 to 50 percent of cancers are due to poor dietary habits. Changes to your diet are imperative in preventing certain cancers and in managing existing cancer.
Phytochemicals and Antioxidants to Fight Cancer
According to the American Institute for Cancer Research, foods containing phytochemicals might slow the growth rate of cancer cells, reduce the oxidative damage to cells and lessen the inflammation associated with cancer growth. Phytochemicals are produced by plants, but unlike vitamins, phytochemicals are not necessary for sustaining biological functions. However, phytochemicals influence chemical processes in your body to stimulate health and immunity. Various forms of phytochemicals exist, such as carotenoids, flavonoids and polyphenols. Consume a diet high in foods with phytochemicals to increase your chance of controlling the spread of cancer. Green apples, sweet potatoes and citrus are sources of phytochemicals. Similarly, antioxidants also protect your body from cancer. Antioxidants stabilize free radicals to prevent damage to your organs. Many foods contain antioxidants and phytochemicals, but not all phytochemicals are antioxidants. Vegetables and fruits are the primary sources of both cancer-fighting nutrients.
Fruits, Vegetables and Grains
Consume a variety of fruits and vegetables daily and try to eat five or more servings of each to maximize your nutritional intake. Produce contains an abundant amount of micronutrients, such as vitamins A, C and E, which are important antioxidants for fighting cancer and aid in keeping the rest of your body functioning properly. Grains are an important source of complex carbs, vitamins and minerals for daily energy. Produce and grains also provide fiber that protects your digestive system so you can further eliminate carcinogens from your body. Choose whole grain breads, beans and green vegetables or fruits with each meal. Snack on mixed berries, oranges and cantaloupe in between meals or grab a handful of walnuts as an alternative to fruit.
Meat and Fat
Meat is a source of protein, a nutrient important for maintaining muscular health. However, choose the leanest forms of meat when attempting to eat healthy to control cancer. Avoid processed meats such as lunch meat and bake a skinless chicken for sandwiches instead. Fatty meats such as beef or pork increase your risk of cancer because high fat accumulation in your body raises hormone production and bile acid levels. Choose foods with low to no saturated or trans fats. Opt for lean poultry and fish as sources of healthier protein. Limit your dairy intake and choose low-fat options for milk, yogurt and cheese.
Herbs and Spices
Add flavor to your meals by cooking with herbs and spices instead of salt. Garlic boosts your immune system and cells to fight cancer. Cayenne or chili peppers contain the ingredient capsaicin, a potential cancer neutralizer. Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory herb. Consider incorporating these herbs and spices into at least one meal a day. Garlic, cayenne and turmeric are flavorful in baked chicken, marinara sauces or lightly sprinkled on vegetables.
Nutrition and Cancer
Food is essential to life, but eating the wrong foods can hinder your success in controlling or preventing cancer. As you attend treatment and take various medications for cancer, your body becomes weakened by the chemicals taken to kill the cancer. Eating is often secondary to dealing with the fatigue, weakness and nausea you experience from treatments. Malnourishment is a risk of poor dietary habits, and this only further harms your efforts at strengthening your immune system to fight cancer. Supply your body with the necessary daily nutrients for energy and viability by eating nutrient-rich foods instead of processed snacks. Choose fresh and pesticide-free produce, avoid adding salt and sugar to your meals, and cook by using the healthiest means -- avoid frying -- to get the most nutrients from your foods.
References
- American Institute for Cancer Research: Phytochemicals -- The Cancer Fighters in Foods We Eat
- The Cancer Project: Protective Foods
- The Cancer Cure Foundation: Cancer Fighting Foods/Spices
- National Cancer Institute: Antioxidants and Cancer Prevention
- American Cancer Society: Eat a Healthy Diet, With an Emphasis on Plant Sources
- Cancer Treatment Centers of America: The Role of Nutrition in Cancer
