Ovarian cancer is the fifth leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women. Symptoms of ovarian cancer may be nonexistent or mild, making it hard for early diagnosis.

However, lifestyle factors such as consuming a healthy diet can reduce the risk of developing ovarian cancer.

Several food items have been found to have cancer-fighting properties. Incorporating these foods in your daily diet can protect your ovaries and overall health. Let’s take a look at some of the ovarian health-boosting foods against cancer.

1. Cruciferous Vegetables

Cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, and kale are cruciferous vegetables that contain an excellent blend of antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins such as carotenoids and vitamin C.

These vegetables contain glucosinolates, which convert into organic compounds that have cancer-fighting properties, protecting the body from cancer cells. Studies have shown that women who consume these vegetables regularly have a reduced risk of ovarian cancer.

2. Turmeric

Turmeric is a spice used in many households across the world. It contains curcumin, a compound that has excellent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Curcumin prevents the formation and spread of cancer cells in the body.

It has also been shown to reduce the risk of developing ovarian cancer.

3. Berries

Blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries contain anthocyanins, a type of flavonoid that offers excellent antioxidant properties to the body. These antioxidants help to combat cancer cells, as they prevent the growth and spread of cancerous cells.

Berries contain ellagic acid, which is known to help beat cancer cells, boosting your body’s immunity.

4. Green Tea

Green tea contains high levels of antioxidants known as catechins. It is a potent cancer-fighting tea that helps the body in the fight against cancer cells.

Studies have shown that consuming green tea can reduce the risk of ovarian cancer while also decreasing the size of tumors in patients who have ovarian cancer.

5. Cruciferous Sprouts

Broccoli sprouts are an excellent source of sulforaphane, a compound that can combat cancer cells. Sulforaphane has been shown to destroy cancer cells, making it an effective way of preventing the formation and spread of ovarian cancer.

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The sprouts also contain antioxidants and vitamins that protect the body.

6. Fish

Fish is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids help to reduce inflammation, a factor that is often linked to ovarian cancer. Fish is also a great source of vitamin D, which has cancer-fighting properties.

Consumption of fish such as salmon, sardines, and mackerel can help reduce the risk of ovarian cancer.

7. Garlic

Garlic is a spice used in many dishes. It contains sulfur compounds that help to enhance the body’s immune system and protect it from cancer cells.

Regular consumption of garlic has been shown to help reduce the risk of ovarian cancer by up to 50% due to its cancer-fighting properties.

8. Whole Grains

Whole grains such as brown rice, oatmeal, and bread contain fiber, vitamins, and minerals that enhance your immune system. These foods also contain antioxidants and lignans, known to have cancer-fighting properties.

Foods rich in whole grains help to reduce the risk of developing ovarian cancer.

9. Apples

Apples are rich in antioxidants such as flavonoids and quercetin. These antioxidants have cancer-fighting properties, warding off cancerous cells. An apple a day can help reduce the risk of ovarian cancer.

10. Tomatoes

Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a carotenoid compound responsible for the fruit’s red color. Lycopene has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it potent in combating cancer cells.

Studies have shown that lycopene consumption could prevent the formation of ovarian cancer.

Consumption of ovarian health-boosting foods can go a long way in decreasing the risk of developing ovarian cancer. Incorporating these foods into your diet can help improve your overall health.