The Battle: Cancer vs Anti-Cancer Foods
Hello everyone! We recently observed World Cancer Day on February 4th. It is recognized as a way to raise cancer awareness and encourage cancer prevention, detection and treatment. On that note, nutritional strategies have a significant impact on the quality of life of both cancer survivors and pre-cancer fighters. Aside from uncontrollable factors such as genetics that increase the risk of cancer, controllable factors such as improving one’s dietary lifestyle are still possible. However, how do foods combat cancer? Here is everything you need to know. Cancer-fighting foods are those that reduce the likelihood of developing cancer. These foods contain beneficial compounds that aid in the prevention of cancer growth.
Cancer-fighting foods —
- Green leafy vegetables: Sulforaphane, a sulfur-rich compound with anti-cancer properties is found in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower and kale. It has been shown to significantly inhibit cancer cell growth by reducing the ability of cancerous cells to multiply. It also acts as an antimicrobial agent in the body, assisting in the elimination of harmful substances. A review of 35 studies found that eating more cruciferous vegetables was associated with a lower risk of colon cancer. Dark green leafy vegetables such as spinach are high in lutein and zeaxanthin. These carotenoids remove unstable molecules called “free radicals” from your body before they cause cell damage. They have been widely demonstrated to protect against mouth, esophageal and stomach cancer.
- Berries: Strawberries and raspberries are packed with antioxidants like vitamin C. On the other hand, blackberries, blueberries and cranberries are high in anthocyanins. They are natural plant pigments with antioxidant properties. They combat free radicals, reduce inflammation in the body and protect DNA from damage. All of these factors contribute to the prevention of cancer cell formation. In a recent study, berry extracts were found to slow the growth of cancer cells, with the greatest impact on colon cancer cells. They have also been linked to the prevention of lung cancer.
- Garlic: Who knew garlic breath could be beneficial? The sulfur compounds that cause the odor also prevent cancer-causing substances from forming in your body. Garlic contains allicin, a compound that has been shown to kill cancer cells. One study discovered that people who consumed allium vegetables like garlic on a regular basis had a lower risk of stomach cancer than those who consumed them infrequently. It has been proven to fight the bacteria that cause stomach cancer.
- Tomatoes: Lycopene is a compound found in tomatoes that gives them their bright red color as well as anti-cancer properties. It defends cells against damage by boosting the immune system. It has been shown in several studies to reduce the risk of prostate cancer. It has also effective in preventing the growth of other types of cancer cells, including breast, lung and endometrial cancer in the uterus.
- Carrots: Carrots are abundant in β-carotene, an antioxidant that fights cancer. According to research, β-carotene plays an important role in immune system support by enhancing white blood cells. An analysis of 5 studies concluded that eating carrots reduces the risk of stomach cancer by up to 26%. They have also been linked to a lower risk of breast, lung and prostate cancer.
Antioxidants, also known as free radical scavengers, are extremely important in cancer prevention. These substances aid in the neutralization of free radicals, which are waste products produced by cells as the body processes food. The accumulation of free radicals causes inflammation and increases your risk of chronic diseases like cancer. Lycopene, β-carotene, Vitamins C and A are some examples of dietary antioxidants with anticancer properties. The best way to increase antioxidant consumption is to adhere to a diet high in fruits and vegetables. In general, eating a balanced diet is necessary to support optimal health outcomes and preserve quality of life. Antioxidants thus serve as a reliable weapon in the fight against cancer! 😇
References:
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/cancer-fighting-foods
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324193
https://www.webmd.com/cancer/features/seven-easy-to-find-foods-that-may-help-fight-cancer
