Kidney cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide, and it affects men more than women.
Although there are different factors that can increase the risk of developing kidney cancer, such as smoking, high blood pressure, obesity, and family history, including certain vegetables in your diet can help prevent kidney cancer. Below you will find 10 vegetables that can lower your risk of developing this disease.
1. Garlic
Garlic is a natural antioxidant, and it has been found to have anti-cancer properties.
A study published in the journal Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention showed that eating raw garlic two or more times per week was associated with a lower risk of developing kidney cancer. Garlic can also help boost the immune system and prevent oxidative damage, which can lead to cancer.
2. Broccoli
Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable that contains sulforaphane, a compound known for its cancer-fighting properties.
Sulforaphane has been found to inhibit the growth of cancer cells in the kidney, according to a study published in the Journal of Urology. Including broccoli in your diet can also help reduce inflammation, which can lead to cancer.
3. Spinach
Spinach is a leafy green vegetable that is rich in antioxidants and vitamins.
It contains carotenoids, such as beta-carotene and lutein, which have been found to reduce the risk of developing kidney cancer, according to a study published in the International Journal of Cancer. Spinach also contains folate, which can help prevent DNA damage that can lead to cancer.
4. Tomatoes
Tomatoes are a good source of lycopene, an antioxidant that has been found to have anti-cancer properties.
A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that men who ate more tomatoes and tomato-based products had a lower risk of developing kidney cancer. Tomatoes can also help protect against inflammation and oxidative stress, which can lead to cancer.
5. Kale
Kale is a dark, leafy green vegetable that is high in nutrients and antioxidants. It contains kaempferol, a flavonoid that has been found to have anti-cancer properties.
A study published in the journal BMC Cancer showed that including kale in the diet can help prevent the growth of cancer cells in the kidney. Kale can also help protect against inflammation and oxidative stress, which can contribute to cancer.
6. Carrots
Carrots are a root vegetable that is high in carotenoids, such as beta-carotene, which have been found to reduce the risk of developing kidney cancer.
A study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that men who consumed more carotenoids had a lower risk of developing kidney cancer. Carrots can also help prevent oxidative damage, which can lead to cancer.
7. Asparagus
Asparagus is a vegetable that is high in antioxidants and nutrients, such as folate. It has been found to have anti-cancer properties, according to a study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry.
Asparagus can also help protect against oxidative stress, which can contribute to cancer.
8. Brussels sprouts
Brussels sprouts are a cruciferous vegetable that contains sulforaphane, a compound known for its cancer-fighting properties.
According to a study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, sulforaphane can help prevent the growth of cancer cells in the kidney. Brussels sprouts can also help reduce inflammation, which can contribute to cancer.
9. Beets
Beets are a root vegetable that is high in antioxidants and nutrients, such as betaine and folate. They have been found to have anti-cancer properties, according to a study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food.
Beets can also help protect against oxidative stress and inflammation, which can lead to cancer.
10. Bell peppers
Bell peppers are a vegetable that is high in antioxidants and vitamins, such as vitamin C. They have been found to have anti-cancer properties, according to a study published in the journal Cancer Research.
Bell peppers can also help protect against oxidative stress, which can contribute to cancer.