Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in the United States and it appears that more cases of cancer are being reported on a yearly basis. This systemic disease can occur because of nutrient deficiencies, poor diet, toxin exposure, and even genetics or heredity. It is possible for us to keep cancer at bay through our diet. Switching to a nutrient-dense diet can help us reduce our risk from cancer significantly. However, for most of us, finding the right foods to include in our diet can be difficult but the good news is that adding certain types of food can help protect us from this dangerous disease. Here are some examples of foods that can help keep cancer at bay.
Cruciferous vegetables
If you want to protect yourself against cancer, then make sure that you add more cruciferous vegetables to your diet. Foods like broccoli and cabbage fall under this category. They are rich in vitamin C, glutathione, and other nutrients that can help protect your body against free radicals that can trigger cancerous bodies to form.
Organic meats
Processed meats should be avoided at all cost but not those that are organic. Organic meats like beef and even chicken liver are often added in many cancer-fighting diet plans because they are in high in nutrient content as well as vitamin B12. Eating organic meats can help cleanse the liver which is important in flushing out the toxins that are lingering in the blood as well as digestive tract. Eating organic meat can help regulate your hormones, reduce obesity, lower your triglyceride levels, and protect you against viral infections
Nuts and seeds
Don’t forget that nuts and seeds should also be included in your diet especially when you want to reduce your risk from cancer. Flaxseeds, chia seeds, hemp seeds, and the like are a few examples of seeds that are nutrient-dense which can deliver omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and essential minerals to your body. Seeds like pumpkin, sunflower and sesame can also be added to your diet through smoothies, baked goods, and the like. Nuts like walnuts and almonds can also deliver protein, zinc, and other minerals to your body which can actually improve your immunity.
Wild-caught fish
It is also a good idea to add wild-caught fish like salmon, tuna, and sardines to your diet once or twice a week to help boost your immune function. The omega-3 fatty acids that are present in these fish can fight off any inflammation present in the body which can significantly reduce your risk from cancer. The omega-3s are believed to retain muscle mass and function especially in those who are undergoing chemotherapy.
Leafy green vegetables
Adding leafy greens to your daily diet comes with unexpected rewards such as immune booster, digestion enhancer, and bone strengthener. Examples of greens that you should integrate into your diet include spinach, romaine, kale, collard greens, and arugula salad. They are high in antioxidants and are known to protect the body against cancer. What’s more, these leafy greens have antibacterial and antiviral properties that can kill off any cancer cells that are brewing inside your body. You can add them in salads, smoothies, soups, and even stir-fry if you like to benefit from the nutrients that they contain.
Berries
You should also have berries in your diet too if you want to protect yourself against cancer. One reason behind this is that they are rich in antioxidants which can deliver plenty of protection against bacterial, viral, and even cancer causing compounds. Berries can also help fight off aging which is a plus considering these delicious fruits can also protect you against cancer.
