Cancer, after cardiovascular disease, is the leading cause of death in the world. Unfortunately, the forecasts are not very optimistic because the percentage of people with the disease continues to grow
According to a large number of studies, there are foods high in antioxidants and Phyto-enzymes that reduce the likelihood of developing various forms of cancer. We will discuss them in the article. Add them to your daily diet if you care about your health. But before that, we should look at foods that can cause cancer
Which things can cause cancer
You should avoid the following substances
- Drinking alcohol Many researchers believe that consuming alcohol leads to cancer. For preventing it, get rid of this habit, contact a specialist, or get proper addiction treatment from a renowned alcohol rehab center near you
- Red meat It can cause prostate cancer, avoid eating red meat in larger quantities.
- Sugary drinks These can cause obesity which can lead to the development of cancer inside the body.
- Processed food These contain harmful substances that can cause stomach cancer. It is better to avoid such foods.
Foods for cancer and other diseases prevention
In this article, we will provide you with the most beneficial foods for fighting deadly diseases such as cancer. Many naturally existing substances can us against these diseases. However, not many of us know about them. Let’s see each one in more detail below
1. Broccoli
Cruciferous vegetables (such as cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts) are beneficial for the prevention of various forms of cancer, especially colon, lung, and stomach. Scientists talk about a sharp decrease in the risk of developing the disease in people whose diet is rich in fruits and vegetables, especially crucifers, because of the Phyto-enzymes they contain
A recent University of Michigan study found that the substance sulforaphane (sourced from broccoli) helps the body get rid of breast cancer cells. Eat 3 to 4 servings of cruciferous vegetables weekly
2. Green tea
The anti-cancer properties of tea are due to its polyphenols known as catechins. According to research, the drink can prevent the growth of tumors, mainly of the lungs, esophagus, colon, and skin
Green tea polyphenols also protect against skin cancer due to their ability to protect DNA from UV rays. As a preventive measure, you should drink 2 to 3 cups every day
But if you can’t have these many cups of green tea, make sure to have it at least once a day. Apart from saving from cancer, it also enhances immunity against other deadly diseases
3. Cocoa
Immediately, we note that we are talking about a natural product. Instant cocoa drinks sold in supermarkets have nothing to do with it
Cocoa contains catechins and procyanidins (powerful antioxidants) that reduce oxidative stress and chronic inflammation, risk factors for a dreaded disease, and other chronic diseases
While we still more research to prove the product’s anticancer effects, dark chocolate (made up of 75% cocoa) ranks high on the list of foods believed to protect against cancer. Two cubes of dark chocolate a day can replace other sweets, contributing to your health
4. Strawberry
Strawberries, like other berries (such as blueberries), are rich in polyphenols known for their cancer-fighting properties. Scientists from Ohio State University presented their results that demonstrate the protective effect of these berries against oxidative and cellular processes that lead to the appearance of malignant tumors
You should include strawberries in your daily diet. If you do not want to eat it soluble, squeeze the juice out of it and have a fresh juice
5. Red Capsicum
It contains capsaicin and an alkaloid. Capsaicin is used topically – in lotions, ointments to combat rheumatic pain, muscle pain, arthritis. It has also been shown to be a weapon in the fight against cancer
It is important to note that it attacks only damaged cells without destroying healthy ones
The alkaloid is responsible for the spicy aroma of the pepper. This compound has long been used in medicine as a pain reliever
6. Turmeric
This spice has special anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. According to the findings of researchers, it can help to prevent cancer
Scientists believe that low rates of some cancers in India, in contrast to high rates in Western countries, are due to increased consumption of turmeric. Indeed, curcumin (the substance that is part of it) can “separate” cancer cells from normal cells and neutralize them. Add spice to soups, sauces, and salads
7. Tomato
Tomatoes are considered an excellent source of nutrients and lycopene (a phyto-enzyme with intense antioxidant activity). Lycopene, in addition to giving the characteristic red color of tomatoes, can destroy free radicals that damage the DNA of cells and can lead to the development of chronic diseases
Recent research linked this substance to protect against various forms of cancer, especially prostate cancer. Scientists also claim that lycopene gets more easily absorbed by the body when you cook tomatoes in vegetable fats (such as olive oil). This is why tomato sauce is one of the ideal cancer-fighting foods
8. Olive oil
The Mediterranean diet (based on this product) is associated with a reduced risk of breast cancer in postmenopausal women. There are numerous benefits of olive oil; among them are its cancer-fighting properties
9. Nuts
These are foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids that have anti-cancer properties. Research linked regular consumption to colon cancer protection. Consume a handful of nuts 1 to 2 times a week as a snack, or add 1 tablespoon to your porridge for breakfast
10. Citrus fruit
Oranges, tangerines, grapefruits, and lemons are an excellent source of vitamin C. These help to strengthen the body’s defenses. Besides, the products contain over 170 different phyto-enzymes and over 60 flavonoids. However, ascorbic acid is also a strong antioxidant. Since, it prevents the development of diseases of the prostate gland, skin, and breast
11. Garlic and onion
Both foods are rich in polyphenols and sulfur compounds that can inhibit the development of disease (especially esophagus, stomach, and colon). Use them, while cooking food
Summing up
It is important to understand that maintaining health and preventing serious illness requires a comprehensive approach. You need to be extremely careful when it comes to your health. Make sure you take a proper diet and include foods that help fight diseases
Leave a Comment