Among female reproductive cancers, cervical cancer is the most common, MayoClinic.com reports. Most cases of cervical cancer occur because of a sexually transmitted disease called human papillomavirus or HPV. Early cervical cancer can present no symptoms, but the most common symptoms of advanced cases include vaginal bleeding, bloody vaginal discharge and pelvic pain. Eating certain foods may help prevent or treat cervical cancer.
Leafy Green Vegetables
Folic acid has been used as a treatment of cervical dysplasia, often a precursor to cervical cancer, and has been quite effective. Cervical dysplasia is defined as precancerous cells that often become cervical cancer cells; certain foods can treat this condition and may also treat cervical cancer that has already developed. Tori Hudson and Christiane Northrup report in their book, "Women's Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine," that leafy green vegetables contain large amounts of folic acid. Adding foods like spinach, lettuce and collard greens will supply a healthy dose of this important nutrient.
Broccoli
Eating broccoli has been linked to many ways of boosting your overall health. Broccoli may also be beneficial for fighting HPV and cervical dysplasia to help reduce your risk of them turning into cervical cancer. Michael T. Murray, Joseph Pizzorno and Lara Pizzorno report in their book, "The Encyclopedia of Healing Foods," that broccoli may also have a powerful effect on cervical cancer that has already developed. Broccoli contains several antioxidants that directly attack cancerous cells that develop in your cervix. Adding a daily serving may have incredible benefits. Other vegetables that have similar antioxidants include cabbages and radishes.
Orange Fruits and Vegetables
Sweet potatoes, cantaloupe, orange bell peppers and carrots contain beta-carotene, which has a powerful effect on cervical cancer and its precursors. Beta-carotene deficiency may contribute to the formation of cancerous cells and may also help treat them as well. Hudson and Northrup report that patients who consumed large doses of beta-carotene had positive results in treating cervical cancer. If you already have cervical cancer, your doctor may recommend supplements, but eating foods rich in beta-carotene can have powerful effects.
Berries
Eating berries may also help prevent and treat cervical cancer, Murray, Pizzorno and Pizzorno report. Strawberries, blueberries, blackberries and raspberries contain a variety of beneficial antioxidants that may boost your immunity and help you fight cancer more effectively. Berries also contain a large amount of vitamin C, which is also important for preventing cervical dysplasia and the formation of cancerous cells. Eating five or more servings of fruits and vegetables is important for preventing and treating cervical cancer, and making one of your servings berries may reduce your risk as well.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Cervical Cancer
- "Women's Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine"; Tori Hudson and Christiane Northrup; 1999
- "The Encyclopedia of Healing Foods"; Michael T. Murray, Joseph Pizzorno and Lara Pizzorno; 2005
