Cancer is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 9.6 million people died from cancer in 2018. The good news is that maintaining a healthy diet can lower the risk of cancer.
Here, we have compiled a list of 30 foods that can naturally boost your body’s fight against cancer.
Fruits
Fruits are rich in nutrients, antioxidants, and fiber, which play a crucial role in maintaining overall health. Here are some fruits that are known to help prevent cancer:.
1. Kiwi
Kiwi is packed with vitamins C and E, which help to neutralize free radicals and prevent oxidative damage to cells. It also contains fiber, which helps to promote healthy digestion and can reduce the risk of colon cancer.
2. Blueberries
Blueberries are full of antioxidants that protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Research suggests that blueberry consumption may help to reduce the risk of several different types of cancer, including breast, colon, and prostate cancer.
3. Grapes
Grapes are rich in resveratrol, a natural compound found in the skin of grapes that has been found to have cancer-fighting properties. Studies have also shown that grapes may help to reduce the risk of lung, colon, and breast cancer.
Vegetables
Vegetables are a vital part of any healthy diet, providing essential nutrients and antioxidants that help to prevent cancer. Here are some vegetables that have been shown to boost the body’s natural cancer-fighting abilities:.
4. Broccoli
Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable that contains sulforaphane, a natural compound that has been found to have cancer-fighting properties.
Studies have also shown that eating broccoli may help to reduce the risk of several different types of cancer, including breast and prostate cancer.
5. Spinach
Spinach is an excellent source of vitamins A and C and contains a high concentration of antioxidants that can help to prevent cancer. It is also rich in flavonoids, which have been found to have anti-inflammatory properties.
6. Carrots
Carrots are rich in carotenoids, which are natural compounds that have been found to have cancer-fighting properties.
Studies have shown that eating carrots may help to reduce the risk of several different types of cancer, including lung and breast cancer.
Herbs and Spices
Herbs and spices not only add flavor to food but also provide many health benefits. Some herbs and spices have been found to have antitumor effects and can help to prevent cancer. Here are a few that you should consider adding to your diet:.
7. Turmeric
Turmeric is a spice that contains curcumin, a natural compound that has been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Studies suggest that turmeric may help to prevent several different types of cancer, including colon, breast, and prostate cancer.
8. Garlic
Garlic is known for its immune-boosting properties, but it may also help to prevent cancer. Studies have shown that garlic may help to reduce the risk of several different types of cancer, including colon, stomach, and prostate cancer.
9. Ginger
Ginger is a root that contains gingerol, a natural compound that has been found to have anti-inflammatory and cancer-fighting properties.
Studies suggest that ginger may help to prevent several different types of cancer, including ovarian, colon, and breast cancer.
Beans and Legumes
Beans and legumes are an essential source of plant-based protein and fiber, which can help to lower the risk of developing cancer. Here are some beans and legumes that have been found to have cancer-fighting properties:.
10. Lentils
Lentils are an excellent source of fiber, which can help to promote healthy digestion and reduce the risk of colon cancer. They are also rich in folate, a B vitamin that has been found to have cancer-fighting properties.
11. Black beans
Black beans are a great source of protein and contain cancer-fighting compounds like flavonoids and saponins. Studies have shown that consuming black beans may help to reduce the risk of colon cancer.
12. Chickpeas
Chickpeas are rich in fiber, protein, and vitamins and contain cancer-fighting compounds like saponins and phytic acid. Studies have shown that consuming chickpeas may help to reduce the risk of breast and colon cancer.
Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seeds are a healthy snack that can provide many health benefits. Research has shown that certain nuts and seeds have cancer-fighting properties, including:.
13. Walnuts
Walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been found to have cancer-fighting properties. Studies have shown that consuming walnuts may help to reduce the risk of breast and prostate cancer.
14. Flaxseeds
Flaxseeds contain lignans, a natural compound that has been found to have anti-inflammatory and cancer-fighting properties. Studies suggest that consuming flaxseeds may help to reduce the risk of breast and prostate cancer.
15. Almonds
Almonds are a great source of vitamin E, which has been found to have cancer-fighting properties. Studies have shown that consuming almonds may help to reduce the risk of breast and prostate cancer.
Seafood
Seafood is a good source of protein and healthy fats that can provide many health benefits. Some seafood has also been found to have cancer-fighting properties, including:.
16. Salmon
Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been found to have cancer-fighting properties. Studies have suggested that consuming salmon may help to reduce the risk of several different types of cancer, including breast and prostate cancer.
17. Sardines
Sardines are another good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been found to have cancer-fighting properties.
18. Tuna
Tuna is a good source of protein and contains selenium, a mineral that has been found to have cancer-fighting properties.
Mushrooms
Mushrooms are a low-calorie food that provides many health benefits. Some species of mushrooms have been found to have cancer-fighting properties, including:.
19. Shitake mushrooms
Shitake mushrooms contain a natural compound called lentinan, which has been found to have anti-tumor properties.
Studies have suggested that consuming shitake mushrooms may help to reduce the risk of several different types of cancer, including leukemia and breast cancer.
20. Maitake mushrooms
Maitake mushrooms are rich in beta-glucans, a natural compound that has been found to have cancer-fighting properties.
Studies have suggested that consuming maitake mushrooms may help to reduce the risk of several different types of cancer, including breast and lung cancer.
21. Reishi mushrooms
Reishi mushrooms are another type of mushroom that has been found to have anti-tumor properties.
Studies have suggested that consuming reishi mushrooms may help to reduce the risk of several different types of cancer, including breast and prostate cancer.
Whole Grains
Whole grains are an essential source of fiber and provide many health benefits. Research has also shown that whole grains can help to prevent cancer. Here are some whole grains that you should consider adding to your diet:.
22. Oats
Oats are a great source of fiber and contain a natural compound called beta-glucan, which has been found to have cancer-fighting properties.
Studies have suggested that consuming oats may help to reduce the risk of several different types of cancer, including breast cancer.
23. Brown rice
Brown rice is a good source of fiber and contains several naturally occurring compounds that have been found to have anti-cancer properties.
24. Quinoa
Quinoa is a nutrient-dense grain that is high in protein, fiber, and vitamins. It also contains several natural compounds that have been found to have cancer-fighting properties.
Beverages
Beverages can also provide health benefits and help to prevent cancer. Here are a few drinks that you should consider adding to your diet:.
25. Green tea
Green tea contains natural compounds called catechins, which have been found to have cancer-fighting properties.
Studies have suggested that consuming green tea may help to reduce the risk of several different types of cancer, including breast, prostate, and colon cancer.
26. Red wine
Red wine contains resveratrol, a natural compound that has been found to have anti-cancer properties.
Studies have shown that consuming red wine in moderation may help to reduce the risk of several different types of cancer, including breast and colon cancer.
27. Coffee
Coffee is rich in antioxidants and contains several naturally occurring compounds that have been found to have cancer-fighting properties.
Studies have suggested that consuming coffee may help to reduce the risk of several different types of cancer, including liver and colorectal cancer.
Dairy Products
Dairy products are an essential source of calcium and vitamin D. Some studies have also found that consuming dairy products may help to prevent cancer. Here are a few dairy products that you should consider adding to your diet:.
28. Yogurt
Yogurt is rich in probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that can help to promote healthy digestion and boost the immune system.
Studies have suggested that consuming yogurt may help to reduce the risk of several different types of cancer, including colon cancer.
29. Cheese
Cheese is a good source of calcium and contains several natural compounds that have been found to have anti-cancer properties.
30. Milk
Milk is an excellent source of calcium and vitamin D, both of which have been found to help prevent certain types of cancer.
Conclusion
Eating a healthy diet is an important part of maintaining overall health and can help to lower the risk of developing cancer. The foods listed above are just a few of the many options that can naturally boost the body’s fight against cancer.
By incorporating these foods into your diet and maintaining an active lifestyle, you can take proactive steps to protect your health and reduce your risk of developing cancer.