Cancer refers to a group of diseases that involve the development of abnormal cells that divide uncontrollably and destroy healthy body tissue. According to the Mayo Clinic, though cancer is the second leading cause of death in America, survival rates, treatment options and research regarding cancer are continually on the rise. If you have or are at risk for cancer, a healthy dietary lifestyle is encouraged as a means of preventing or improving treatment of cancer.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables provide a number of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants--substances that help neutralize molecules called free radicals. According to the National Cancer Institute, these foods help to reduce one's risk for developing cancer. Fruits and vegetables are prime sources of antioxidants such as beta-carotene, lycopene, vitamin C and vitamin E. To help protect your body from cancer, consume a variety of sweet potatoes, carrots, cantaloupe, squash, apricots, pumpkin, mangoes. spinach, kale and collard greens, all of which provide beta-carotene. Tomatoes, watermelon, guava, papaya, apricots, pink grapefruit and blood oranges provide lycopene. Vitamin C is found in oranges, grapefruit, tomatoes, strawberries, spinach, broccoli and other fruits and vegetables. Mangos and broccoli contain valuable amounts of vitamin E. Incorporate a variety of colorful, fresh fruits and vegetables into diet on a regular, consistent basis for the best potential results.
Vitamin D-Rich Foods
Vitamin D is a fat soluble vitamin found in few foods. Vitamin D is also synthesized by ultraviolet rays and thus can be acquired through sun exposure. According to the American Cancer Society, a growing body of research indicates that vitamin D intake can help reduce cancer risk. Cod liver oil, salmon and mackerel are rich sources of vitamin D. Tuna and fortified milk, yogurt and cereals provide moderate amounts of vitamin D. Modest amounts of the nutrient are present in margarine, sardines, eggs and Swiss cheese. Incorporate a variety of foods containing vitamin D as a means of potentially reducing cancer risk. If you do not reap proper amounts of vitamin D from diet and/or exposure to the sun, talk with your doctor about the possible need for supplementation.
Whole Grains
Whole grains provide vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and dietary fiber. According to the National Cancer Institute, whole grains are valuable sources of selenium, a mineral linked with reduced cancer risk. Incorporate long-grain rice and whole wheat foods into your diet to reap significant amounts of selenium. Experts at the Harvard School of Public Health suggest that whole grains are beneficial in preventing cancer, diabetes and cardiovascular diseases as a result of not one particular nutrient but from the culmination of nutritious elements whole grain foods provide. For this reason, whole grain breads and cereals, brown rice, oats, bulgur, spelt and barley may provide far more benefits than vitamin or nutrient supplementation alone. Incorporate a variety of whole grains into your diet routinely to maximize results.
