The best foods to fight cancer
BROCCOLI
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| The best foods to fight cancer |
Combatting cancer
Recent research has shown that indole-3-carbinol, a chemical component
found in broccoli, can combat breast cancer by converting cancer-promoting
estrogen into a more protective variety. Additionally, the phytochemical
sulforaphane in broccoli increases the levels of cancer-fighting enzymes that
defend the body against known carcinogens such as cigarette smoke, fumes, and
pesticides.
Diet tips
Broccoli leaves actually contain more beta-carotene (pre-Vitamin A) than the florets. You can incorporate the leaves into purees, soups, and stir-fries. To preserve the valuable nutrients in broccoli, it is recommended to steam or microwave it, taking care not to overcook. Instead of garnishing broccoli with fatty cheeses and creams, try squeezing lemon juice or sprinkling toasted bread crumbs for added flavor.
PAPAYA
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| The best foods to fight cancer |
Combatting cancer
Papaya contains a plentiful amount of vitamin C, which acts as an
antioxidant and may reduce the absorption of cancer-causing nitrosamines from
the soil or processed foods. It also contains folacin (folic acid), which has
shown potential in minimizing cervical dysplasia and certain cancers.
Diet tips
When selecting papayas, choose ones that are at least half yellow, as fully green ones were likely picked too soon and won't ripen properly. Papaya can be served in fruit salads, added to garlic-and-spinach pasta mixtures, or enjoyed on its own, savoring the juice as it dribbles down your arm.
GARLIC
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| The best foods to fight cancer |
Combatting cancer
Garlic contains allium compounds that enhance the immune system and
block carcinogens from entering cells, thereby slowing tumor development.
Diallyl sulfide, a component of garlic oil, has also been found to render
carcinogens in the liver inactive. Studies have shown that garlic, along with
onions, leeks, and chives, is associated with a lower risk of stomach and colon
cancer.
Diet tips
Incorporate raw garlic into salads, use it fresh in marinades and sauces, or rub freshly cut garlic around the insides of salad bowls, chicken, and fish fillets. It is advisable to avoid dried or powdered garlic, as it is less concentrated and therefore less effective.
KALE
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| The best foods to fight cancer |
Combatting cancer
Kale and other leafy greens contain indoles, nitrogen compounds that
have been shown to halt the conversion of certain lesions into cancerous cells
in estrogen-sensitive tissues. Additionally, kale contains isothiocyanates,
phytochemicals that are believed to suppress tumor growth and block the reach
of cancer-causing substances to their targets.
Diet tips
Kale, being a cruciferous vegetable, requires quick cooking methods like
blanching or steaming to preserve its nutrients. After cooking, you can save
the nutrient-rich cooking liquid for soups or sauces. Large kale leaves can
also be used to wrap fillings or layered in lasagna.
SWEET POTATO
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| The best foods to fight cancer |
In the fight against cancer, sweet potatoes offer a multitude of benefits due to their nutrient density. These root vegetables are particularly abundant in beta-carotene, which plays a crucial role in safeguarding the DNA within the cell nucleus from harmful cancer-causing substances located outside the nuclear membrane.
Dietary suggestions
When choosing sweet potatoes, prioritize fresh ones over canned varieties, as the latter tend to have lower levels of beta-carotene, vitamin C, and vitamin B. Mashed sweet potatoes, with their natural sweetness and creaminess, can be further enhanced by incorporating a touch of apple juice. Alternatively, you can whip the cooked tubers with orange zest or juice and season them with cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger for added flavor.
GRAPEFRUIT
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| The best foods to fight cancer |
Grapefruits,
much like oranges and other citrus fruits, are equipped with monoterpenes,
which are believed to contribute to cancer prevention by eliminating
carcinogens from the body. Scientific studies have indicated that grapefruit
has the potential to impede the proliferation of breast cancer cells in
laboratory settings. Additionally, this fruit is a rich source of vitamin C,
beta-carotene, and folic acid.
Dietary suggestions
To enhance the flavor of grapefruit, you can sweeten it with brown sugar or drizzle it with maple syrup or honey. Vanilla extract, fresh mint, and almonds can also be used to accentuate its taste. However, it's important to note that while grapefruit juice contains antioxidants and phytochemicals that fight cancer, it lacks the fiber found in fresh, whole grapefruit.
AVOCADO
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| The best foods to fight cancer |
Avocados
combat cancer by providing the body with a wealth of glutathione, a potent
antioxidant that combats free radicals by impeding the absorption of certain
fats in the intestines. Furthermore, avocados supply 60 percent more potassium
per ounce than bananas and are a rich source of beta-carotene.
Dietary suggestions
Store avocados at room temperature until they reach the desired level of ripeness. If you don't consume the fruit immediately after cutting, sprinkle it with lemon or lime juice to prevent discoloration. Avocado chunks or slices can be added to salads and sandwiches, or you can spread mashed avocado on bread for a delicious and nutritious option.
SEAWEED
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| The best foods to fight cancer |
Seaweed and
other sea vegetables offer an array of cancer-fighting components, including
beta-carotene, protein, vitamin B12, fiber, chlorophyll, and chlorophylones,
which are essential fatty acids that may help in the battle against breast
cancer. Moreover, these sea vegetables are rich in minerals such as potassium,
calcium, magnesium, iron, and iodine.
Dietary suggestions
Sea vegetables can be obtained fresh, dried, or in powdered form. They are commonly used in Japanese and Irish cuisine as flavorings for broths, soups, and stir-fries. They can also serve as wraps for fish and other seafood. Varieties like dulse, wakame, kombu, and hijiki can even be incorporated into pancakes, salads, puddings, and sandwiches.
TOFU
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| The best foods to fight cancer |
Tofu,
derived from coagulating soybean protein, contains various types of
phytoestrogens, which are weak, nonsteroidal estrogens that may aid in the
prevention of breast and prostate cancer by impeding and suppressing cancerous
transformations. One specific phytoestrogen found in soy, called genistein,
reduces the risk of breast cancer by inhibiting the growth of epithelial cells
and the formation of new blood.