No single diet completely protects people from cancer. The term cancer-fighting foods refer to foods that, if a person adds them to their diet, may reduce the risk of developing cancer.
Some risk factors for cancer, such as genetics and the environment, are out of your control, but research suggests that about 70% of your lifetime cancer risk is within your ability to change including your diet. Avoiding smoke, restricting tobacco, maintaining a healthy weight and regular exercise are all excellent approaches to cancer prevention. It can also play a vital role in following a healthy diet.
This article looks at the best cancer-fighting foods and discusses the science that supports such arguments.
Powerful Naturally Occurring Cancer-fighting Foods You Must Know
Green Tea
Green tea is popularly known for lowering the risk of different cancer types. The green tea contains many powerful compounds such as catechins, epicatechin etc. These compounds help to prevent the development and growth of cancer cells. 2 to 3 cups of green tea should be taken daily to reduce cancer risks.
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Ginger
This is one of the top proven cancer-fighting foods you should take seriously. Ginger is very useful for reducing the risk of several cancer types. The antioxidants found in the ginger inhibit cancer cells from developing. The ginger prevents the development of cancer cells in the body and thereby keeps it from continuing to grow. In addition, ginger can prevent lung, breast, skin and pancreatic cancers. Drink 2 or 3 cups of ginger tea a day.
Garlic
Garlic comes with such compounds as allicin, sulfur, arginine, and selenium, all of these compounds are well known to mitigate cancer risk. You will slow the progression of various types of cancer cells in your body if you can afford to eat garlic on a regular basis instead.
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Broccoli
Broccoli is an important fruit used to minimize cancer risk. The cruciferous vegetable contains a compound called glucosinolates that creates defensive enzymes in the body. One of the million enzymes found in the broccoli is sulforaphane that helps reduce the risk of cancer by flushing out chemicals that cause cancer. Sulforaphane also inhibits stem cells of cancer that continue to develop tumours. Many people consider this vegetable and its juice as the best cancer-fighting foods available.
Beans
Beans are high in fibre which has been shown in some studies can help protect against colorectal cancer. Studies with humans and animals have found that a higher intake of beans may reduce the risk of colorectal tumours and colon cancer. Another research supports this claim.
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Tomatoes
Tomatoes are a good source of lycopene, a potent antioxidant that assists in the cancer battle. Consumption of products made from processed or raw tomatoes is more likely to reduce cancer risk. Such red tomatoes also lower the risk of endometrial cancer, breast cancer, liver cancer, and stomach cancers.
Blueberries
Blueberries are rich in phytonutrients and antioxidants which fight against cancer. Such berries neutralize the free radicals which can kill the cells and cause other diseases, including cancer. They are also filled with vitamins C and K, manganese and dietary fibres, which can help to reduce the risk of cancer. Such berries help in reducing cancer of the mouth, ovary, liver, breast, lung and scalp.
Spinach
Spinach is known for its lutein component. This is an antioxidant that plays an important role in cancer prevention. Similarly, the spinach’s carotenoids protect your body from free radical damage.
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Grapes
Both grapes and grape seeds are rich in resveratrol antioxidants which give anti-cancer benefits. It blocks the activity of a protein which causes cancer growth. Moreover, the grapes’ anti-inflammatory effects reduce excessive oxidative stress and chronic inflammation. Eat a cup of fresh grapes every day.
Walnut
Walnut is another food amongst cancer-fighting foods you must take note of. Walnut contains a good deal of polyphenols and phytochemicals, and its compounds are filled with antioxidants. These are also high in antioxidants for anti-cancer, such as ellagitannins and alpha-linolenic acid. Drink one ounce of walnuts a day, this will help you fight cancer. Walnut may also be added to sandwiches, soups, or smoothies.
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Citrus Fruits
Several studies have linked consuming citrus fruits such as lemons, limes, and oranges with a reduced risk of cancer. One large study showed that people who ate higher quantities of citrus fruits were at reduced risk of developing digestive and upper respiratory tract cancers. A review examining nine studies also found that a higher intake of citrus fruit was associated with a lower risk of pancreatic cancer.
Other studies showed that high intakes of citrus fruit, or at least three portions a week, reduced the risk of stomach cancer by 28 per cent.
Pomegranate
Pomegranate is another food which has anti-cancer benefits. It contains very strong antioxidant material. add the fruit to your morning cereals, smoothie and fruit salad or just drink the juices. These will help you fight cancer.
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Conclusion
Research into cancer-fighting foods is still in its early stages, and further testing is required. The majority of the experiments reported in cells or mice were carried out by scientists.
If you have a family history of cancer, making slight changes to your lifestyle and habits can now make a big difference to your long-term health. And if you have been diagnosed with cancer, eating a nutritious diet during this challenging time can help support your mood and strengthen your body.
But remember that eating a balanced diet high in fresh fruits, vegetables and good fats will benefit overall health.