The key to fighting cancer is by having a strong immune system, and what better way to strengthen it than by incorporating veggies into your daily diet? Besides being rich in vitamins and minerals, certain vegetables have also been found to contain compounds that can help lower the risk of cancer. Here are five vegetables that can boost your immune system and support healthy lipid levels to fight cancer:.
1. Broccoli
Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable that’s packed with sulforaphane, a compound that helps regulate the immune system and prevents cancer cell growth. It’s also high in fiber, which helps support healthy lipid levels in the body.
In addition, broccoli contains beta-carotene, which has been found to reduce the risk of certain types of cancer such as lung and prostate cancer. Consuming broccoli raw or lightly cooked is the best way to preserve its cancer-fighting properties.
2. Spinach
Spinach is an excellent source of antioxidants such as vitamin C that help protect the body from harmful free radicals that can cause cancer.
It’s also rich in folate, a vitamin that helps repair damaged DNA and prevent cell mutations that can lead to cancer. Spinach is also high in fiber, which can help support healthy lipid levels in the body. It’s been found that consuming at least 3 servings of spinach a week can help reduce the risk of breast, ovarian and colorectal cancer.
3. Carrots
Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, an antioxidant that converts to vitamin A in the body. It’s been found that a diet high in beta-carotene can reduce the risk of developing certain types of cancer such as lung and prostate cancer.
Carrots are also high in fiber, which can help support healthy cholesterol levels in the body. Try steaming them or roasting them to bring out their natural sweetness.
4. Garlic
Garlic contains a compound called allicin, which has been found to have anti-cancer properties. Allicin has been shown to activate immune cells that attack cancer cells and to inhibit cancer cell growth.
It’s also been found that consuming garlic regularly can help lower the risk of colon, stomach and prostate cancer. Garlic is best consumed raw or lightly cooked to preserve its cancer-fighting properties.
5. Tomatoes
Tomatoes contain a powerful antioxidant called lycopene, which has been found to have anti-cancer properties. Lycopene helps protect the body from free radicals that can damage cells and tissues and lead to cancer.
It’s been found that consuming at least one serving of tomato-based products such as tomato sauce, salsa, or juice a day can help reduce the risk of certain types of cancer such as prostate cancer. Cooking or processing tomatoes helps to release more lycopene, making them more effective in reducing the risk of cancer.
Conclusion
By incorporating these five vegetables into your daily diet, you can help boost your immune system and support healthy lipid levels in your body to fight cancer.
Remember to consume them raw or lightly cooked whenever possible to preserve their cancer-fighting properties. Don’t forget that a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise and not smoking also plays an important role in reducing your risk of cancer.