5 Superfoods to Reduce the Risk of Cancer
Nearly 2 million people are diagnosed with cancer in the U.S. every year. Cancer as a disease kills more than 500,000 people annually. There are now many new cancer treatment options available, which can dramatically slow its progression. The three most common types of cancer include breast, prostate, and colorectal cancer. There isn’t one singular cause of cancer, which can be attributed to lack of physical activity, radiation, smoking, chronic inflammation, or hormones, along with diet and nutrition.
Yet what we eat can play a role in reducing cancer development. Below is a list of superfoods that can potentially reduce the risk of cancer
1. Berries
Berries are not only delicious, but they’re also considered one of the healthiest foods on the planet, which provide several impressive health benefits. They are packed full of antioxidants, which help protect cells from free radicals. Free radicals are molecules, which can damage cells and can contribute to premature aging, illnesses, and cancers. The berry has been studied for its anti-cancer effects for decades, which can potentially reduce the risk of developing colorectal and kidney cancer. Strawberries and raspberries are each in fiber and folic acid, while blackberries are a great source of anthocyanosides, which can help strengthen the immune system and deactivate free radicals. Blueberries contain a variety of powerful antioxidants such as anthocyanins and resveratrol, which is found in the skin of the berry. They are also a rich source of fiber, ellagic, and folic acid, along with vitamin A and C, which can also potentially lower the risk of obesity
2. Cruciferous vegetables
Cruciferous vegetables, which include broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and collards, along with bok choy, bruise sprouts, and radishes are very important for your health. These super veggies contain more vitamins and minerals, which should be a cornerstone of every person’s diet. Experts and dieticians recommend consuming at least two cups of vegetables a day, which contain high amounts of vitamin K, E, and C, along with folate. They are also a great source of phytonutrients, which can help reduce the risk of cancer. The link between these super veggies and cancer prevention is nothing new, which also contain sulfur-containing chemicals known as ”glucosinolates.” Glucosinolates provide these vegetables with their bitter flavor, which also helps inhibit the development of cancer
3. Fatty fish
More than 2 million people a year are diagnosed with kidney cancer that will often require renal cell carcinoma treatment to slow its growth rate, but there are foods such as fatty fish, which help reduce it’s invasiveness naturally. They contain ”good fats, ” which can improve brain function and reduce the risk of developing cancer. Studies have shown that people who consume fish have a 75% less likelihood of developing cancer and live longer lives than those who do not eat fish
4. Walnuts
Nearly everyone loves nuts, but walnuts are one of the healthiest nuts you can eat. They contain plenty of antioxidants and are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which also contain anti-cancer properties. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which help maintain a healthy balance and reduce inflammation. The balanced omega fatty acids can help regulate cell growth, which therefore reduces the risk of developing certain cancers
5. Legumes
Beans, peas, chickpeas, lentils, and peanuts all belong to the legume plant family, which are rich in fiber, protein, iron, and calcium, along with folate, potassium, and zinc. Higher legume consumption can also help reduce the risk of cancer, which includes colorectal tumors and colon cancer