Foods that Lower Your Risk of Cancer

 

    It is no secret that your diet influences your health, including your risk of developing chronic illnesses like heart disease, diabetes, and even cancer. Scientists have found that the development of cancer, in particular, is extremely influenced by your choice of foods. Many foods contain beneficial compounds, like vitamins, minerals, and oils that can help decrease the growth of cancer, so it is ultimately up to us to make the healthier decisions instead of a quick run through the drive-thru. At The Get Well Center, we practice holistic and alternative healthcare, right in Mansfield, Ohio, so we believe that taking precautionary measures by eating well and taking care of yourself is the way to go. 

    Scientists have found that certain foods contain certain compounds that could help decrease the growth of cancer, and several studies have shown that a higher intake of certain foods could be associated with a lower risk of the disease. Let's go over some of these foods so that you can start incorporating them into your diet, if they aren't there already. 

• First up is broccoli. This leafy green contains sulforaphane, which is a compound that has been shown to cause tumor cell death and reduce tumor size in test-tube and animal studies. It is said that a higher intake of cruciferous vegetables may also be associated with a lower risk of colorectal cancer.
• Next are carrots, there has been a association between carrot consumption and the decreased risk of developing prostate, lung, and stomach cancer. 
• Then we have beans. Human and animal studies have shown that a higher intake of beans could reduce the risk of colorectal tumors and colon cancers. 
• Berries are another food that will help prevent cancer. While it is only in test-tube and animal testing, it was found that certain compound in berries may decrease the growth and spread of certain types of cancers. 
• Olive oil surprisingly is loaded with a ton of nutrients. Several studies have shown that a higher intake of olive oil may be associated with a reduced risk of certain types of cancers. 
• While there are many other foods that help with the prevention of cancers, the last one we will mention is fatty fish. Fatty fish contains vitamin D and omega-3 fatty acids, two nutrients that are believed to protect against cancer. These oils are also just extremely healthy for you so it is good to get them anyways. 

    While studies are still going on to see how these foods affect the human body with diseases, they have been proven to help with the prevention of these diseases. It is important to keep in mind that your diet is a very important part of your health, so eating as best as you can is what will benefit you. If you have any questions about your diet or need some guidance, feel free to contact us. We are more than willing to answer any of your questions and help you through your healthcare journey.