Breast cancer is the most common cancer affecting women worldwide. It is essential to integrate a healthy diet with lifestyle changes to prevent cancer.

Scientists have found that incorporating specific foods in your diet can help protect against breast cancer. Here are ten foods with cancer-fighting properties.

Berries

Berries are a nutritious group of fruits that come packed with essential vitamins, antioxidants, and flavonoids. These bioactive compounds counteract oxidative stress caused by cancer cells.

Research studies suggest that berries such as strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries contain ellagic acid, which slows cancer cells’ growth. Berries are low in calories, high in fiber, and safe for most people, making them a perfect addition to your diet.

Cruciferous Vegetables

Broccoli, Brussels sprouts, kale, cauliflower, and cabbage belong to the cruciferous vegetable family, popularly known to help combat cancer. These vegetables contain sulfur-rich compounds called sulforaphane.

Sulforaphane is believed to stimulate genes producing enzymes that protect the body from damage and disease. Several studies suggest that regular consumption of cruciferous vegetables can help prevent breast cancer.

Fatty Fish

A recent study showed that incorporating fatty fish-rich in omega-3 fatty acids could reduce the risk of breast cancer.

The omega-3 fatty acids present in fish like salmon, mackerel, tuna, and sardines reduce inflammation in the body, which is the leading cause of chronic diseases, including cancer. Experts recommend consuming at least two servings of fish per week to reap the health benefits.

Grapes

Grapes contain the phytochemical resveratrol, which is known for its cancer-fighting properties. Resveratrol exhibits antioxidant effects that can help prevent cancer cells from multiplying.

Red grapes are particularly rich in antioxidants compared to green grapes and raisins. Consuming grapes can also help regulate blood sugar levels and blood pressure, protecting the body against cardiovascular diseases.

Garlic

Garlic has long been accredited for its numerous medicinal properties, including its ability to fight cancer. Garlic contains sulfuric compounds such as alliin, which when crushed, chopped, or chewed, activates to form allicin.

Allicin has been shown to induce cell death of cancer cells and inhibit the growth of tumor cells. Researchers suggest that consuming raw garlic daily can help prevent breast cancer.

Green Tea

Green tea is a refreshing drink known for its multiple health benefits. Its high antioxidant levels and bioactive compounds like catechins have proved beneficial in the prevention of cancer.

The epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) present in green tea is capable of killing cancer cells, cutting off the blood supply to tumors, and preventing cancer cells from proliferating. Drinking a few cups of green tea daily could help reduce the risk of breast cancer.

Mushrooms

Mushrooms contain compounds called beta-glucans, which enhance the immune system’s response against cancer cells. Research has shown that consuming mushrooms like shiitake, maitake, and reishi could help inhibit the growth of breast cancer cells.

Mushrooms are also low in calories and high in fiber, making them an ideal food for cancer prevention.

Nuts

Nuts are loaded with healthy fats, essential vitamins, and minerals that promote overall wellbeing. They also contain antioxidants that can help prevent cell damage and the formation of cancer cells.

Studies suggest that nuts like almonds, walnuts, and pecans can help enhance immune function and reduce inflammation in the body, preventing chronic diseases such as cancer.

Seeds

Seeds like flax, chia, and sesame contain essential nutrients that can help reduce the risk of breast cancer. These seeds contain high amounts of fiber, which helps flush out harmful toxins from the body.

They also contain lignans, a group of phytoestrogens that can reduce the risk of breast cancer, particularly for women in their premenopausal years.

Turmeric

Turmeric, a bright yellow spice commonly used in curries, contains a potent compound called curcumin. Curcumin exhibits strong anti-inflammatory effects that help fight cancerous cells’ growth.

Studies have shown that including turmeric in your diet can help inhibit the growth of breast cancer cells. Turmeric is versatile and can be added to smoothies, soups, and dressings to incorporate it into your diet easily.