Cancer is among the leading causes of death in the United States, and can affect a number of cells and tissues within your body. Contributing factors to cancer progression can include inherited or acquired genetic mutations, environmental and lifestyle factors, such exposure to radiation, or diet and exercise. Some vitamins and minerals may have cancer-fighting properties and prove beneficial for cancer patients. While these supplements should not replace traditional cancer treatments, consuming some vitamins and minerals may help improve your prognosis or fight initial cancer development.
Zinc
The Linus Pauling Institute reports that low levels of zinc consumption correlate with a higher risk of cancer. Zinc is an antioxidant mineral, meaning it helps to neutralize free radicals -- chemicals that cause genetic mutations and contribute to cancer growth and development. To prevent a zinc deficiency and potentially help prevent or fight cancer, consume zinc-rich foods, such a seafood, legumes, and whole grain foods.
Vitamin C
A vitamin that may help prevent or fight cancer is vitamin C. Like zinc, vitamin C is an antioxidant in your body, and therefore may help prevent genetic mutations that can initiate or drive cancer development. The Linus Pauling Institute says that vitamin C can also reduce the risk of oral, colon, stomach and lung cancers, highlighting the vitamin's cancer-protective role. While the efficacy of vitamin C in treating cancer has not yet been firmly established, consuming vitamin C may fight cancer in its earliest stages, before a tumor develops.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D may also play a role in fighting cancer, according to the University of California, San Diego Moores Center. The university website explains that vitamin D, taken with calcium, helps regulate how cells within your body communicate. In cancer development, this communication can change, preventing your cells from communicating effectively, and leading to tumor growth. While the role of vitamin D in fighting later-stage cancers remains unknown. Consuming adequate amounts of vitamin D may fight cancer early in its development.
Considerations
The role of vitamins and minerals in fighting cancer is a constantly-evolving field of research, with promising data that the nutrients you eat can help fight the development or progression of cancer. However, vitamin and mineral supplements cannot replace surgery, chemotherapy or other cancer treatments. In addition, taking vitamin supplements along with anti-cancer medications can prove harmful, since vitamins may decrease the efficacy of some pharmaceuticals. If you're interested in vitamin or mineral supplements to fight cancer, consult a medical professional to determine the safety and potential benefits of vitamin supplements for treating your condition.
