The American Cancer Society states that over 1,500,000 new cancer cases will emerge and over 500,000 deaths will occur due to cancer-related illnesses in 2011. Lung and kidney cancer are two of the most common forms of cancer, and while lifestyle changes reduce the probability of developing cancer in these locations, certain foods may be consumed to help combat the likelihood of cancer cell formations.
Vegetables
The Cancer Cure Foundation reports almost a third of all cancer-related deaths may be contributed to the person's diet. This organization states consuming fresh, organic vegetables may help prevent developing cancer, such as lung and kidney cancer, and possibly reduce cancerous tumor sizes. The Mayo Clinic also supports the claim eating vegetables is a significant step in cancer prevention. Avocados, cauliflower, broccoli, carrots, kale, mushrooms and cabbage all contain active compounds known to inhibit cancer formation and development. Within these vegetables, compounds such as beta carotene, glutathione, sulforaphane, indoles and nitrogen are found, which are all known to prohibit the development of cancer cells, according to the Cancer Cure Foundation. These and other green-leafy, vegetables are found within the A.P. John Institute for Cancer Research recommended diet for those with cancer due to their anti-cancer properties. HelpGuide.org suggests buying local or organically grown produce and fruits to avoid consuming pesticides, which are known to hold carcinogenic properties.
Fruits
Like vegetables, certain fruits contain active compounds known to help prevent cancer cell development. Fruits such as red grapes, grapefruit, figs, oranges and raspberries contain active compounds to protect the body from liver and kidney cancer development. Some of the active compounds within these fruits include anthocyanins, limonene, monoterpenes, bioflavonoids as well as calcium, potassium and magnesium. While consuming organic fruits may help prevent cancer, if you are currently undergoing chemotherapy or other cancer treatments, some of the active compounds in these fruits may do more harm than good. For example, the A.P. John Institute for Cancer Research reports those currently undergoing chemotherapy should not consume grapefruits.
Role of Antioxidants
While the majority of the fruits and vegetables listed above have different active compounds, most of the natural super foods to prevent cancer cell development contain high levels of antioxidants. Antioxidants combat the damage caused by free radicals, which are unstable molecules linked to cancer development, according to the National Cancer Institute. Even though antioxidants are known to protect healthy cells from free radical damage, the National Cancer Institute reports most studies regarding the effectiveness of antioxidant in cancer prevention or treatment result in inconclusive findings.
Warnings
Prior to altering your diet, consult the diet change with your physician. This is especially important if you've been diagnosed with lung or kidney cancer and are currently undergoing treatment. While most of the aforementioned foods are considered safe for healthy individuals, compounds found within these items may cause adverse interactions with certain medications or cancer treatments.
References
- American Cancer Society; Cancer Facts & Figures 2011; 2011
- A.P. John Institute for Cancer Research; Kidney Cancer; 2011
- University of Maryland Medical Center; Lung Cancer; Steven D Ehrlich, NMD; June 2010
- Mayo Clinic; Cancer Prevention: 7 Tips to Reduce Your Risk; September 2010
- The Cancer Cure Foundation; Cancer Fighting Foods/Spices
- National Cancer Institute; Antioxidants and Cancer Prevention: Fact Sheet; July 2004
