Oral cancer is a type of cancer that can affect any part of the mouth, including the tongue, lips, gums, and cheeks. Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and a poor diet are all major risk factors for oral cancer.
However, making changes to your diet can help lower your risk of developing this serious condition. In this article, we will discuss the best foods to eat to lower your risk of oral cancer.
Fruits and Vegetables
Fruits and vegetables are packed with vitamins and minerals that help keep your body healthy. Eating a variety of colorful fruits and vegetables can lower your risk of oral cancer, as well as other types of cancer.
Some of the best fruits and vegetables to eat include:.
- Broccoli
- Kale
- Spinach
- Carrots
- Tomatoes
- Berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries)
- Citrus fruits (such as oranges, lemons, and limes)
Green Tea
Green tea is known for its many health benefits, including its ability to help lower your risk of cancer. The antioxidants in green tea can help prevent the growth of cancer cells and may even be able to kill cancer cells.
Drinking green tea regularly can also help improve overall health and reduce the risk of other health problems.
Garlic
Garlic is a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant that has been shown to help lower the risk of several types of cancer, including oral cancer.
Eating garlic regularly may also help lower cholesterol levels, reduce blood pressure, and improve overall health. To get the most health benefits from garlic, it is best to eat it raw or lightly cooked.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a bright yellow spice that is commonly used in Indian cuisine. It contains a substance called curcumin, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Curcumin may also help prevent the growth of cancer cells and may even be able to kill cancer cells. Adding turmeric to your food can help reduce your risk of oral cancer, as well as other types of cancer.
Whole Grains
Whole grains are an excellent source of fiber and other essential nutrients. Eating a diet rich in whole grains can help lower your risk of several types of cancer, including oral cancer. Some of the best whole grains to eat include:.
- Brown rice
- Quinoa
- Whole wheat bread
- Barley
- Buckwheat
Fish
Fish is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for overall health. Omega-3 fatty acids can help lower inflammation in the body, which may help reduce the risk of several types of cancer, including oral cancer.
Some of the best types of fish to eat include:.
- Salmon
- Tuna
- Sardines
- Mackerel
- Herring
Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seeds are a good source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. Eating a variety of nuts and seeds can help lower your risk of several types of cancer, including oral cancer. Some of the best nuts and seeds to eat include:.
- Almonds
- Walnuts
- Flaxseeds
- Chia seeds
- Sunflower seeds
Conclusion
Eating a healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, nuts, and seeds can help lower your risk of several types of cancer, including oral cancer.
It is also important to avoid smoking, limit alcohol consumption, and maintain a healthy weight to further reduce your risk of cancer. By making these simple dietary changes, you can give your body the nutrients it needs to stay healthy and prevent cancer.