When it comes to cancer prevention, lifestyle factors such as exercise and diet play a major role. In fact, research has shown that making certain dietary choices can help lower the risk of cancer.
Here are 10 foods that have been shown to have anti-cancer properties and can help reduce the risk of the disease:.
1. Leafy Greens
Leafy greens such as kale, spinach, and collard greens are loaded with cancer-fighting compounds. These vegetables contain high levels of antioxidants and carotenoids, which can help protect cells from damage and prevent the growth of cancer cells.
2. Berries
Berries such as blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries are rich in antioxidants and other compounds that have been shown to have anti-cancer properties.
In particular, the flavonoids in berries have been found to help prevent the growth of cancer cells and reduce inflammation in the body.
3. Tomatoes
Tomatoes contain a powerful antioxidant called lycopene, which has been shown to have anti-cancer properties. Studies have found that lycopene may help reduce the risk of several types of cancer, including prostate cancer.
4. Garlic
Garlic has long been known for its health benefits, and research has shown that it may have anti-cancer properties as well. The compounds in garlic have been found to help prevent the growth of cancer cells and reduce inflammation in the body.
5. Broccoli
Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable that contains high levels of sulforaphane, a compound that has been shown to have anti-cancer properties.
Studies have found that sulforaphane can help prevent the growth of cancer cells and may even help destroy them.
6. Nuts
Nuts such as almonds, walnuts, and cashews are a good source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber. They also contain anti-inflammatory compounds and antioxidants, which can help protect cells from damage and prevent the growth of cancer cells.
7. Green Tea
Green tea is rich in polyphenols, which are compounds that have been shown to have anti-cancer properties. In particular, the polyphenols in green tea have been found to help prevent the growth of cancer cells and reduce inflammation in the body.
8. Whole Grains
Whole grains such as brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat contain fiber, vitamins, and minerals that are essential for good health. They also contain antioxidants, which can help protect cells from damage and prevent the growth of cancer cells.
9. Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits such as oranges, grapefruits, and lemons are rich in vitamin C and other antioxidants, which can help protect cells from damage and prevent the growth of cancer cells.
Studies have found that the compounds in citrus fruits can also help reduce the risk of several types of cancer, including breast cancer.
10. Turmeric
Turmeric is a spice that has been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine. It contains a compound called curcumin, which has been shown to have anti-cancer properties.
Studies have found that curcumin can help prevent the growth of cancer cells and reduce inflammation in the body.