Cervical cancer, also called cervical dysplasia, is cancer that starts in the cervix. Cervical cancer is the third most common type of cancer in women over age 30, according to 2010 information from PubMedHealth. Cervical cancer is mainly caused by the human papillomavirus, a sexually transmitted infection. Most cases of cervical cancer can be prevented with a vaccine. Dietary modifications can help manage cervical cancer.
Vegetables
Cruciferous vegetables are important to prevent a recurrence of cervical cancer because they contain phytochemicals, which help prevent cancer. Cruciferous vegetables include cabbage, kale, broccoli, Brussels sprout, cauliflower, collard greens, turnip greens, mustard greens and rutabaga. Antioxidant-rich foods can also help prevent cancer. Antioxidants are substances that protect your body's cells from free-radical damage. Vegetables rich antioxidants include tomatoes, oranges, pineapples and squash.
Calcium-Rich Foods
Calcium-rich foods and calcium supplements may help prevent cancer, according to the National Cancer Institute. Calcium is an essential mineral that helps make bones and teeth strong. Calcium also supports important metabolic processes in the body. Calcium-rich foods include milk, yogurt, cheese, beans, almonds and dark green leafy vegetables such as kale spinach, collard greens, turnip leaves and mustard greens.
Foods to Avoid
After a diagnosis of cervical cancer, you should avoid refined and processed carbohydrates such as white breads, white pasta and table sugar, to help prevent a recurrence, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Eat more complex carbohydrates such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables. You should also decrease your intake of red meat, cured meat and roasted meat. Eat more lean meat, fish and skinned poultry. Additionally, you should avoid caffeine, alcohol and tobacco. You should drink 6 to 8 glasses of water everyday.
Supplements
Dietary supplements can also help prevent cervical cancer. The UMMC advises patients with cervical cancer to take 1 to 2 capsules of omega-3 fatty acids to help reduce inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids are found in fish oil and unsaturated vegetable oils. Folic acid supplements are also useful in the prevention of cervical cancer because the vitamin helps in the formation of new healthy cells. A multivitamin that contain trace minerals such as calcium, magnesium, is also recommended.
