Did you know that the easiest and most effective way to help protect against cancer is with your diet? A new research shows that the majority of of cancers are caused by our diet and various environmental factors. This means that we have the ability to protect ourselves from getting cancer, so let’s all get proactive and start eating the right foods that not only keep us healthy, but safe from cancer!
Cruciferous vegetables
Vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage and kale contain two antioxidants which are lutein and zeaxanthin which are known to help fight cancer. Broccoli especially also contains sulforaphane, an enzyme that can deactivate free radicals and carcinogens. Women should consume more broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower as they contain a chemical component that can combat breast cancer.
Peppers and Chilis
If you enjoy fresh cut chilis and jalapenos, you’ll be excited to know that hot chili peppers protect the stomach lining and can prevent the gastric damage associated with anti-inflammatory painkillers. Furthermore, chilis contain capsaicin, which neutralizes some cancer-causing substances like nitrosamines, thus being able to prevent stomach cancer.
Garlic
Garlic is a pungent bud with antibacterial properties to fight a bacterium found in the stomach known as Helicobacter pylori. Garlic contains immune-enhancing compounds that increase the activity of immune cells that fight cancer and breaks down cancer-causing substances. According to a report, people who consumed raw or cooked garlic regularly face about half the risk of stomach cancer than those who don’t.
Carrots
Carrots contain high amounts of beta carotene, a natural chemical known as carotenoids, which converts into Vitamin A once it reaches the body. It is also high in antioxidants like Vitamine E and C. Beta carotene in carrots is known to reduce a wide range of cancers from mouth, throat, stomach, intestines, and more. However, there is concern that high doses of beta carotene can increase your risks of heart disease and cancer, but this allegation has not been proven that eating carrots, unless more than 2-3 kilograms a day, can cause cancer. (Source)
Green Tea
Green tea contains catechins which is the key element in fighting off toxins that cause cancer. It is said that that drinking more than 2 cups a day can help decrease your chance of getting lung cancer by 18%. (Source)
Avocados
This rich and creamy fruit is rich in a powerful antioxidant, glutathione that attacks free radicals in the body and blocks intestinal absorption of certain fats. Avocados are also rich in Vitamin E, an antioxidant known for its role in cancer prevention. A study showed that pre-menopausal women with a family history of breast cancer have lower chances of getting breast cancer when they consumed high quantities of Vitamin E from avocados. (Source)
Tomatoes
Lycopene is a an antioxidant found in tomatoes that attacks free radicals. Research done by scientists also shows that lycopene in tomatoes can kill mouth cancer and with increased intake, it can reduce the risk of cancers in the breast, prostate, pancreas and the colon.
Figs
Figs are not only rich in fiber and aids in weigh-loss due to its juice being a potent bacteria killer, but figs also contain a derivative of benzaldehyde, which is reported to be highly effective at shrinking tumors.
Citrus
Vitamin C is an essential nutrient to prevent cellular damage that leads to cancer. Oranges and lemons, which contain limonene, a substance that turns stimulates cancer-killing immune cells like lymphocytes. Grapefruits are also beneficial as they contain monoterpenes, which is believed to remove carcinogens out of the body, to help prevent cancer.
Flax Seed
While most seeds and nuts are great for the body, flax seed contain lignans, a substance that has an antioxidant effect to block and suppress cancerous agents in the body. Furthermore, it’s high content in omega-3 fatty acids can also protect you from colon cancer and heart disease. (Source)
