20 Foods That Can Help Fight Cancer
You’ll agree that cancer has tormented the human race for a long time. Till now, there is no single food that can prevent cancer entirely. However, there are certain foods have been shown to have properties that may help reduce the risk.
Nutrition plays an important role in our overall health as humans. Are you curious about which foods can help? You’re in the right place! This article highlights 20 foods that can help in the fight against cancer. Here are they!
Foods That Can Help Fight Cancer
Here are foods that can help fight cancer:
- Berries
Berries are not only delicious but also contain antioxidants. These compounds help fight free radicals in the body. As you are aware, free radicals can cause cell damage and increase cancer risk. Berries include blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries.
Of course, these are rich in vitamin C, fibre, and various polyphenols. These nutrients work together to support the body’s immune system and combat oxidative stress. Additionally, research has shown that blueberries contain high levels of anthocyanins.
- Leafy Greens
Leafy greens, including spinach, kale, and Swiss chard, are full of vitamins that are essential for maintaining health. They also contain compounds that may help prevent cancer. These vegetables are rich in vitamins A, C, E, and K. Additionally, they also include antioxidants and fibre. These nutrients contribute to overall well-being and lower cancer risk in humans.
It is advised to add leafy greens to your food. Additionally, you can include a variety of greens in your meals for maximum benefit.
- Garlic
Garlic is a common kitchen food that has been linked to numerous health benefits. Its strong flavour is accompanied by powerful anti-cancer properties.
Garlic contains sulfur compounds that boost the immune system. When you eat it regularly, it can help reduce the risk of certain cancers, including stomach and colorectal cancers.
- Tomatoes
Tomatoes are foods with nutrients. They contain an element called Lycopene. Do you know what Lycopene are? Lycopene is known for its potential to neutralize free radicals. So, you can cook tomatoes because it increases their lycopene content.
A study in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that men who eat cooked tomatoes had a lower risk of prostate cancer.
- Cruciferous Vegetables
Vegetables contain properties that are good for fighting disease. Many vegetables are rich in glucosinolates. Vegetables like broccoli have anti-cancer effects. This is because they are high in vitamins C and K and are high in fibre.
So, it is imperative to add vegetables to your food. You can add vegetables to your rice, beans, yam and other food.
- Nuts
Nuts are a healthy source of fat. Normally, fats contribute to glucose accumulation in the body. However, nuts provide a healthy alternative. Walnuts, in particular, have been said to lower cancer risk.
It is also important to add that nuts provide healthy fats, protein, and a variety of vitamins and minerals. They also contain antioxidants that may protect against cancer.
- Fatty Fish
Fatty fish like salmon and mackerel are high in omega-3 fatty acids. As you know, fishes have anti-inflammatory properties. Omega-3s are essential for heart health.
You’ll notice that after eating fish your heart becomes functional. So, fish plays an important role in reducing cancer risk. They help lower inflammation and support brain function too. Isn’t that amazing?
As a practical tip, aim to include fatty fish in your diet at least twice a week. You can either grilling or bake the fish with herbs. Doing this will increase the flavour.
- Whole Grains
This may sound strange to some people. Examples of grains include brown rice, quinoa, and oats. These are excellent sources of fibre for humans. A high-fiber diet can lower the risk of colorectal cancer. Colorectal cancer affects the colon and rectum together.
Additionally, they also promote digestive health and help maintain a healthy weight. In your family, you can substitute beans with white rice every 3 days. You can also use peanut butter for bread too.
- Beans
Beans are an excellent source of protein and fibre. They also contain phytochemicals that may help protect against cancer. One attribute of Beans is that they are very low in fat and high in fibre. Due to this factor, it is a great addition to your food timetable too.
Do well to add beans to your rice or porridge. They can also be blended to form bean cake. There’s no way beans should be discarded in your food calendar.
- Turmeric
Turmeric is a spice known for its vibrant colour and health benefits. It contains curcumin which is a powerful anti-inflammatory compound.
Curcumin quickly stops the growth of cancer cells. Additionally, it has been shown to enhance the effects of certain cancer treatments. It is advised to include turmeric in curries, smoothies, or teas. You can also grind it with black pepper too. Blending it with tomato or pepper can increase its consumption.
- Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are very high in vitamin C. This vitamin supports the immune system and prevents cancer. Vitamin C gives your body the needed support for your white blood cells. Citrus fruits are also rich in flavonoids. They have been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Green Tea
Green tea is loaded with antioxidants called catechins. The elements may help reduce the risk of various cancers. Green tea is low in calories and has been linked to numerous health benefits.
For example, you could include reduce fat in your body. It’ll also surprise you to note that researchers in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers, & Prevention suggest that green tea consumption can lower the risk of breast and prostate cancer.
- Apples
An apple a day might keep cancer away! Apples contain quercetin, which has protective properties against cancer. Apples are high in fibre and vitamin C. They also provide antioxidants that help fight oxidative stress.
You can enjoy apples when you are travelling. You could choose apples instead of chewing biscuits or sweets. Do well to live a healthy diet.
- Avocado
Avocados are rich in healthy fats and antioxidants. They can help fight cancer and support overall health. Avocados are also high in fibre and various vitamins. Research published in Nutrition and Cancer suggests that avocados may stop the growth of cancer cells in humans.
In many places in Africa, they enjoy Avocado in place of butter. So, you, too, can adopt this method routinely to protect your health.
- Ginger
Ginger is a spice with a long history of medicinal use. It has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce cancer risk. It also contains gingerol. As you are aware, gingerol is an element that has been shown to have antioxidant effects.
It may also help with nausea and digestive problems. You can incorporate ginger into teas, stir-fries, or marinades. Fresh ginger can also be added to your soft drink too.
- Pomegranate
Pomegranates are full of antioxidants and can help slow the growth of cancer cells in your body. They are also rich in vitamins C and K, as well as fibre.
They provide anti-inflammatory benefits that support health. Research published in Clinical Cancer Research indicates that pomegranate extract may help reduce prostate cancer growth.
- Mushrooms
Mushrooms are of different kinds. So, you need to boost the immune system and may have anti-cancer properties. Mushrooms are low in calories and high in nutrients. They provide selenium, which has been linked to cancer prevention.
Do well to include mushrooms in your food. They can also be grilled or roasted for a delicious side dish. Mushrooms are very good when mixed with other foods and snacks. Never underestimate mushrooms.
- Chocolate
Chocolate is rich in flavonoids, which are antioxidants that may help protect against cancer. Chocolate has been shown to improve heart health and reduce inflammation. It also provides a small amount of iron and magnesium.
- Red Grapes
Red grapes contain resveratrol, an antioxidant that may help protect against cancer. Resveratrol has anti-inflammatory properties and can help lower the risk of heart disease as well. They can also be frozen for a refreshing treat.
- Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are high in beta-carotene. To newbies, beta-carotene is defined as a nutrient that helps reduce the risk of certain cancers. Beta-carotene is converted to vitamin A in the body.
This conversion is important for immune function and overall health. You can enjoy sweet potato with oil or egg. Many enjoy sweet potatoes with sauce. Do well to eat it with any food of your choice.