Cancer touches everyone's lives. Whether through personal battle or through struggles of a friend or family member, it is likely that you are familiar with the debilitating effects of this disease. Fortunately, the food choices you make can greatly influence your risk of developing cancer and affect the body's ability to fight existing cancer.
A diet that provides vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and phytochemicals helps bolster our immune system and maintain or repair wellness. Here are some steps you can take to make your diet a cancer-fighting tool:
Eat a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, concentrating on strong, vivid colors, such as those found in red peppers, green broccoli and orange yams. The antioxidants and phytochemicals in these foods provide powerful protection against cancer.
Increase fish intakes while limiting red meat. A diet rich in salmon, mackerel and halibut provides the highest concentration of omega-3 fatty acids. Compounds known as prostaglandins derived from omega-3 fatty acids may inhibit cancer growth.
Drink green tea. Aim for three cups a day to help block the formation of cancer-causing compounds.
Swap white flour products for whole grains. Look for breads offering 100 percent whole grains. Whole grains may cut colon cancer risk.
Eat high fiber foods such as legumes and vegetables, and drink plenty of water to help your body eliminate toxins.
Reduce your exposure to pesticides. Buy organic when possible, particularly when buying foods in which pesticides are concentrated, such as meat, eggs, cheese and milk.
What we choose to eat truly does have the power to boost our health and fight off disease. For additional dietary guidelines, schedule an appointment with a registered dietitian (RD).
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