Approximately one-third of all deaths from cancer are related to the diet, according to the Cancer Cure Foundation. Since cancer is so prevalent among American women, it is important that women eat healthy in order to minimize their chances of getting cancer. The Cancer Cure Foundation states that many common fresh foods contain antioxidants and phytochemicals that can help prevent and fight off cancer.
Raspberries
All berries can help to reduce your risk of developing cancer, according to the Stanford Health Improvement Program. The program states that raspberries are rich in ellagic acid, a compound that helps to prevent skin cancer, breast cancer and lung cancer. The Stanford Health Improvement Program also states that raspberries have antioxidants that can slow down the growth of cancer in women who already have cancer. Raspberries are excellent when eaten fresh, but are also available frozen. Use them in smoothies or on top of a warm bowl of oatmeal.
Broccoli
Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable, according to the Cancer Cure Foundation. All cruciferous types of vegetables contain antioxidants. The Cancer Cure Foundation states that broccoli has two specific antioxidants called lutein and zeaxanthin that can decrease a person's cancer risk. Additionally, broccoli contains a chemical called indole-3-carbincole, which can reduce the harmful levels of a cancer-causing estrogen and thus, help to prevent breast cancer in women. The Standard Health Improvement Program states that broccoli has been linked to decreased risks of lung, stomach, bladder and colorectal cancer as well
Tofu
Tofu is a tasteless soy bean product that takes the taste of whatever it is cooked with. Tofu is excellent in vegetable sautés or when used as a meat replacement in lasagna and other dishes. According to the Stanford Health Improvement Program, soy products such as tofu contain isoflavones, which can protect you from bladder cancer, cervical cancer and stomach cancer. The hormone-mimickers found in tofu can also help to prevent breast cancer in women.
Spinach
Dark leafy green vegetables such as spinach are full of cancer-fighting antioxidants. Spinach also contains the vitamin folate, which can reduce a woman's risk of breast cancer, states the Stanford Health Improvement Program. Try replacing your regular lettuce with spinach in salads, adding spinach to a quiche, or sautéing it as a side dish.
