Cancer remains one of the world's most pressing health problems. According to the United States National Cancer Institute, nearly 12 million people had cancer in 2007. However, medical advancements in the early diagnosis, treatment and management of the disease have improved the chances of full recovery from cancer, though a complete cure remains elusive. Active promotion of preventative practices like eating a healthy diet and living a more active lifestyle is the best course for avoiding cancer. Advocates of alkaline diets recommend this style of eating as a method of cancer prevention and treatment.
Alkaline Diet
The food you eat, along with the environment you live in, determines your body's pH levels. Diets that include salty snacks, processed foods, meats and dairy products increase the levels of acid in your body. An alkaline diet encourages the consumption of vegetables, fruits, certain types of proteins and nuts to neutralize the effects of acids and promotes higher alkalinity.
Alkaline-Rich Foods
A typical alkaline diet consists of vegetables, fruits, proteins and nuts. Alkaline vegetables include broccoli, eggplants, wheat grass, radish, green beans, sweet potatoes, lettuce, beets and carrots. Bananas, cantaloupes, berries, apples, avocado, cherries, tomato, currants, pineapple and peaches are excellent alkaline fruits.
It may come as a surprise that citrus fruits are also considered alkaline rich foods. Citrus fruits have an acidic ph before entering the body but leave an alkaline residue once they have been metabolized. Common sources of protein like meat are acidic but alternative sources like tofu, whey and eggs increase alkalinity. Chestnuts and almonds are rich sources of alkaline as well.
Cause of Cancer
The exact mechanism that causes the development of cancers is yet to be determined, but there are certain factors that are scientifically proven to increase the risk. Cancers are the result of cell mutations. The development of abnormal cells and their replication replaces normal healthy cells, leading to organ failure as normal cell functioning is destroyed. High levels of acids in the body interfere with the normal cellular supply of oxygen and nutrients. It also places stress on the immune system, hindering it from carrying out its normal functions. As a result, the body is unable to eliminate cancer-causing toxins, fight off cell-destroying diseases and properly repair its cells. This increases the chances of developing abnormal or cancer cells.
Food vs. Cancer
Alkaline foods help restore the body's pH balance. Cells are then able to receive the nutrients and oxygen they need, maximize the function of its immune system, eliminate toxins better and fight off cancer causing viruses. Vegetables and fruits have long been recommended in many cancer diets. Vegetables are rich in fibers which aid in normal bowel movement and can reduce a person's risk for developing colon cancer, one of the most common types of cancer. They are also used for detoxification, which helps the body eliminate cancer-causing toxins.
PH Levels and Health
Too much of a good thing can be bad, and having too much of either acid or alkaline foods in your body can increase your chance of developing medical issues. This is why eating a balanced, healthy diet in recommended amounts is important. Careful management of the acid and alkaline foods you eat will keep your body healthier and reduce your risk for developing cancer.
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