Ovarian cancer is one of the most common types of cancer affecting women. It could be a fatal one if not detected at an early stage.

However, research has suggested that incorporating certain foods into one’s diet can help in reducing the risk of ovarian cancer. These foods are termed as anti-cancer foods, and they contain various nutrients that have proven beneficial for ovarian health.

In this article, we will discuss these foods in detail and explain how they can help in maintaining a healthy ovarian system.

Cruciferous Vegetables

Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, kale, and cabbage are known to be rich in nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals. They contain compounds like indoles and isothiocyanates that are believed to have anti-cancer properties.

Studies have demonstrated that indoles are helpful in regulating estrogen levels in the body, and elevated levels of estrogen have been linked to ovarian cancer. Consuming cruciferous vegetables on a regular basis could help in keeping estrogen levels balanced and decreasing the risk of ovarian cancer.

Berries

Berries like blueberries, cranberries, blackberries, and strawberries are low in calories but high in nutrients. They contain a compound known as anthocyanin that is responsible for their vibrant color and is believed to have anti-cancer properties.

Various studies have shown that anthocyanin has a protective effect against ovarian cancer cells. Berries are also a great source of fiber and vitamin C, which can help in boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation in the body.

Leafy Greens

Leafy greens like spinach, kale, and Swiss chard are rich in nutrients like folic acid, iron, and vitamin K. They also contain a compound known as chlorophyll, which is believed to have anti-cancer properties.

A study conducted by the University of Illinois showed that consuming a diet rich in leafy greens helped in reducing the risk of ovarian cancer. Moreover, leafy greens are also rich in antioxidants that can help in protecting the body against free radicals.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are a great source of lycopene, a carotenoid that gives the fruit its bright red color.

Lycopene is known to have anti-cancer properties, and studies have shown that consuming lycopene-rich foods could help in reducing the risk of ovarian cancer. Moreover, lycopene is also believed to have a protective effect against other types of cancer like breast and prostate cancer. Tomatoes are also rich in vitamin C and potassium, which can help in maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system.

Garlic

Garlic is known to have various health benefits, and its anti-cancer properties have been widely studied. Garlic contains a compound known as allicin, which has been shown to have a protective effect against ovarian cancer cells.

Moreover, consuming garlic can also help in reducing inflammation and boosting the immune system. Research has suggested that consuming fresh garlic could be more beneficial than consuming garlic supplements.

Turmeric

Turmeric is a spice that is widely used in Indian cuisine. It contains a compound known as curcumin that has anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. Studies have shown that curcumin could be helpful in reducing the growth of ovarian cancer cells.

Turmeric is also believed to have various other health benefits, like aiding digestion and improving cognitive function.

Whole Grains

Whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, and oats are rich in fiber and various nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Consuming whole grains on a regular basis can help in maintaining a healthy weight and reducing the risk of various types of cancer, including ovarian cancer. Moreover, whole grains are also rich in complex carbohydrates that can help in providing the body with sustained energy throughout the day.

Beans and Legumes

Beans and legumes like lentils, chickpeas, and kidney beans are a great source of protein and various nutrients like fiber, iron, and zinc.

Studies have shown that consuming beans and legumes could help in reducing the risk of various types of cancer, including ovarian cancer. They are also low in fat and calories, making them a great addition to a healthy diet.

Fatty Fish

Fatty fish like salmon, tuna, and mackerel are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, a type of healthy fat that has various health benefits.

Omega-3 fatty acids are believed to have anti-cancer properties and could be helpful in reducing the risk of ovarian cancer. Moreover, consuming fatty fish can also help in reducing inflammation in the body and improving cardiovascular health.

Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds like almonds, walnuts, and flaxseeds are a great source of healthy fats, fiber, and various nutrients like vitamin E and magnesium.

Studies have shown that consuming nuts and seeds could be helpful in reducing the risk of various types of cancer, including ovarian cancer. They are also low in calories, making them a great snack option for people looking to maintain a healthy weight.

Conclusion

Consuming a diet rich in anti-cancer foods could be helpful in reducing the risk of ovarian cancer. These foods contain various nutrients that have proven beneficial for ovarian health.

Incorporating these foods into one’s diet could be an easy and effective way to maintain a healthy ovarian system.