Food Choices that Can Help Prevent Cancer

When it comes to beating cancer, the best bet is to put up a fight before it strikes. Using proper nutrition with foods that prevent cancer is not foolproof but adding such foods to your diet can't hurt and can even increase your body's immunity and ability to fight cancer.

Plant-Based Foods

A diet that is primarily plant-based has been found to offer the most prevention of cancer. This includes foods that are derived from plants such as fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts and beans. It is not necessary to go completely vegetarian with your diet but instead primarily eat plant-based foods and a lesser amount of meats.

Remember that when choosing fruits and vegetables, the brighter the colors, the better. The brightest-colored fruits and vegetables are packed full of phytochemicals which are nutrients that help fight disease and boost immunity.

Fruits and vegetables are also full of antioxidants--a vitamin that protects against cancer and improves cell function. If you like blueberries, they are a great source of antioxidants.

High Fiber Foods

Foods with fiber such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains can keep your digestion on track and can move cancer-causing compounds out of your body before they have a chance to wreak havoc. Natural and unprocessed foods are higher in fiber so opt for things like brown rice instead of white, whole grain bread instead of white bread, popcorn instead of potato chips, fresh fruit, baked potato instead of mashed, beans instead of ground meat.

Other great high fiber foods that can help prevent cancer include whole grains (such as oatmeal, whole wheat pasta, bran muffins), fruits (such as berries, apple, pear, dried fruit, citrus fruits and other fruits), legumes (such as lentils, chick peas, kidney beans, black-eyed peas and other beans) and vegetables (corn, carrots, tomatoes, potatoes, dark green leafy vegetables and more).

Fats

Excessive fats in a diet can be harmful to your health but cutting out fat entirely is not wise. Certain fats can actually help prevent cancer. Unsaturated fats that are derived from plant sources--such as canola oil, olive oil, avocodoes, nuts and foods that are high in omega-3 fatty acids (such as tuna, salmon and flaxseeds) are wise choices that can even help protect against cancer and improve overall health.

Water

Drinking plenty of water is beneficial to your health in many ways. Water stimulates the immune system, can help purify your body by removing waste and toxins and it helps get the necessary nutrients to your organs. Drink plenty of water every day to stay well-hydrated and healthy.

Spices and Flavorings

If you want to add a little flavoring to your food, opt for seasonings that not only taste great but can improve your health and help prevent cancer. Curry powder, garlic and ginger contain nutrients that can help fight cancer. Other great choices include turmeric, rosemary, basil and coriander.

Source:
Helpguide.org