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Cancer Fighting Foods With Peach Vitamins

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Cancer Fighting Foods – What Foods Cure Cancer Naturally?

 

We live in a day and age where we are steadily assaulted by toxic, carcinogenic threats. We are continually learning about compounds in our air, food and water that pose grave threats to our health. It’s easy to feel like we have little control over our health, future or longevity with so many dangers in all areas of our lives.

Although we are all affected by the toxins of an industrialized lifestyle and may feel like victims of the very treatments that intend to heal us, there is much we can do to take control of our lives with cancer fighting foods.

With every meal we choose our future. By the very foods on our plate, we write our destinies. We can even decrease our risk of cancer, increase the success of conventional treatments and help ourselves to restore health by choosing foods containing cancer-fighting nutrients. Let’s take a look at some of the foods we should be eating for cancer protection…

 

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Alliums

 

Allium vegetables confer nutritional and cancer-protective benefits for those who consume them regularly. This family of superfoods includes onion, leeks, shallots, chives, scallions and garlic – which was a favorite prescription of Hippocrates as well as an extensively used herbal remedy in the ancient societies of Rome, Egypt, China and Babylon.

Garlic, in particular, is highly rich in vitamins and minerals that boost immune function, strengthen bones and even help us to detoxify from heavy metals. (Joe Leech, 2018)  alliums food

Allicin is one of the most studied compounds in the allium family. It is formed when garlic is crushed or chopped and in addition to its anti-cancer benefits protects us from atherosclerosis, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and even helps us to recover from muscle soreness. (Wong, 2019)

Studies attesting the cancer protective properties of allium vegetables are abundant and show that:

  •         Eating lots of alliums, especially garlic and leeks, offers protection from breast cancer. (Sengupta A, 2004)
  •         Consuming onions reduces risk of stomach cancer. (Setiawan VW, 2005)
  •         Including garlic and onions in one’s diet offers significant protection from colorectal cancer. (Consuming garlic and onions may lower colorectal cancer risk, 2019)
  •         Quercetin, which is found in all allium vegetables and in greatest concentration in onions, has potent anti-tumor properties and offers protection of cancers of the lung, breast, colon, nerve cells, blood, ovaries and endometrium. (Dr. David Jockers DC, 2017)

What Is In Tomatoes That Fights Cancer?

 

Tomatoes are a delicious addition to pretty much any meal, whether it be a simple sandwich or salad, or a rich gourmet concoction. And with so much research supporting the benefits of consuming tomatoes for your health, there’s no reason to skimp on these delicious, beautiful fruits. Tomatoes seem to retain their beneficial nutrients after being cooked so it makes no difference whether you prefer them fresh, stewed or cooked into a savory sauce.

tomatoes nutrition

Tomatoes are rich in numerous antioxidants that protect us from cancer: vitamins A, C and E – and of course, lycopene. Known for giving tomatoes their bright red hue and protecting us from heart disease, lycopene is a carotenoid known for inhibiting growth of cancer cells and preventing metastasis. It is especially successful in limiting occurrence and progression of prostate cancer. (Pajkovic, 2009)

Does Flaxseed Fight Cancer?

 

Flaxseeds are easy to work into your diet, even if you’ve never consumed them before. You can add them to your smoothies, mix them into a beverage or sprinkle them over fruit or yogurt.

flaxseed nutritionFlaxseeds contain a lot of powerful nutrients that make it worth a bit of effort if you’re feeling reluctant to try them:

  •         Fiber – Supports digestive health, weight management and offers protection of cancers, especially of the colon and rectum
  •         Magnesium – Essential for motility of the digestive tract, serotonin production and muscle function, magnesium deficiencies are a      risk factor for cancer (Castiglioni S, 2011)
  •         Thiamin – Inhibits growth of cancer and like magnesium, a deficiency in thiamin is a risk factor for developing cancer (Lu’o’ng KV, 2013)
  •         Omega-3 Fatty Acids – Protect us from heart attacks and reduces risks of breast cancer (Omega 3, n.d.)

 

Lignans are the super star of the beneficial nutrients found in flaxseeds. Although they are also found in other foods – like whole grains, beans and berries – they are found in a much higher concentration in flaxseeds. Lignans protect us from cancer by limiting formation and growth of tumors, especially in cancers of the breast and prostate. (Flaxseed and Cancer Survivorship, n.d.)

Cruciferous Vegetables

 

Cruciferous Vegetables include cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage, kale, radish, collard greens, Brussels sprouts and bok choy. This family of healthy vegetables has many healthful nutrients. They’re rich in fiber, vitamins E, C and K, folate and minerals. Cruciferous foods also contain several carotenoids: beta-carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin.

cruciferous vegetables benefitsWhat really sets cruciferous vegetables aside from other healthy foods is a group of sulfurous compounds called glucosinolates. These chemicals are what give this family of plants their trademark pungent smell and bitter taste.

These compounds have been proven to inhibit progression of cancers of the bladder, breast, colon, liver, lung, and stomach. Laboratory studies have demonstrated the following actions of glucosinolates in protecting us from cancer:

  •         Cruciferous foods protect our cells from DNA damage.
  •         They deactivate carcinogenic compounds in our bodies.
  •         There is a boost of antiviral and antibacterial properties.
  •         These compounds reduce body wide inflammation.
  •         They inhibit growth and spread of tumors. (Cruciferous Vegetables and Cancer Prevention, 2012)

So, the next time you’re inclined to pass on the broccoli, think again. We should all be treating ourselves to the protective benefits of cruciferous vegetables on a regular basis!

What Kind Of Grapes Are Used For Cancer?

 

You’re probably familiar with the anti-cancer compound found in grapes, resveratrol. Wineries love to boast that their products are rich in this protective compound. Don’t be fooled! Although wine does contain resveratrol, doctors maintain that alcohol increases cancer rates to such a degree that we’d be wise to seek a safer source.  red grapes nutrition

That’s easy enough! Red, purple and green grapes all contain this cancer-fighting nutrient, as do raisins. All the more reason to enjoy these light and healthy snacks!

Resveratrol is an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. Studies have shown that it protects cells from the damage that ultimately leads to the development of cancer. Resveratrol prevents and slows growth of cancerous tumors of the lymph, liver, stomach and breast cells. It also seems to kill tumors associated with colon cancer and leukemia. (Foods That Fight Cancer, n.d.)

Does Black Rice Really Have Health Benefits?

 

Black rice contains some of the wonderful cancer-fighting compounds we’ve identified in other foods, like fiber and anthocyanins. One of the things that sets this nutrient-rich grain apart from other sources, is that it is relatively inexpensive to obtain in large quantities. Adding black rice to your diet will increase the nutrient profile of your meals without putting a strain on your wallet.

black rice nutritionAccording to food scientist Dr Zhimin Xu: “Just a spoonful of black rice bran contains more health promoting anthocyanin antioxidants than are found in a spoonful of blueberries, but with less sugar, and more fiber and vitamin E antioxidants.” Black rice has been proven particularly effective in preventing metastasis of breast cancer and holds promise for preventing other forms of the disease. What’s not to like about that!? (Black rice is the new cancer-fighting superfood, claim scientists, 2010)

You’ve probably heard concerns about levels of arsenic in rice. Arsenic is a naturally-occurring element that is found in soil and some forms of fertilizer and rice seems to absorb it more so than other foods. They are a couple steps you can take to protect yourself from arsenic (a toxic heavy metal) without missing out on rice:

  •         Choose white rice over brown to reduce the arsenic level in your dish.
  •         Cook your rice in a 1:6 ratio with water and pour off the excess when the rice is cooked sufficiently.  Some of the arsenic will wash away with the extra water.

How Does Turmeric Help With Cancer?turmeric benefits for skin

 

Turmeric is a beautiful root that boasts some of our favorite cancer-fighting and health-promoting actions. It is powerfully antioxidant as well as anti-inflammatory.

Turmeric prevents infections, relieves kidney stones, reduces gas and bloating, prevents inflammation and protects us from cancer. Thus far studies have found that turmeric is an effective preventative for cancers of the colon, stomach and skin. 

Turmeric is a delicious seasoning agent. You can add the powder to any meal as you’re cooking, though it is most famously used to create curry and other savory eastern dishes. The powder form of the root can also be added to fruit smoothies for an additional nutrient boost. Whole turmeric root can be found at most natural grocers. It can be juiced and makes a tasty anticarcinogenic cocktail when combined with the juices of ginger and carrots! (Turmeric, 2019)

What Are Dark Leafy Greens Good For?

 

We all know that nutrient-rich, dark leafy greens are an essential component of a healthy diet. Greens are rich in fiber, folate and a wide range of carotenoids – the family of antigreen leafy vegetables benefitsoxidants that protects us from cellular damage. We’ve recently discovered that particular greens offer protection from specific forms of cancer. For instance:

  •         Spinach is highly effective for preventing pancreas cancer. 
  •         Mustard greens reduce our risk of lung and colon cancers.
  •         Bok choy offers protection from cancers of the breast, esophagus, stomach, prostate, and lungs.

To optimize your protection from these and other cancers, you’ll want to be sure to eat a variety of dark leafy green vegetables on a regular basis. (Mey, 2019)

What Are The Best Medicinal Mushrooms?

 

Mushrooms are believed to actual identify cancer cells and prevent them from growing and dividing, thanks to special compounds called lectins. They also provide systemic benefits, by reducing inflammation and fortifying our immune system. Mushrooms increase antioxidant activity, stabilize blood sugar and support cognitive functioning. (5 Stunning Health Benefits Of Medicinal Mushrooms, 2018)

mushroom benefitsIn Asia, more than 100 types of mushrooms used to treat cancer! Some of the more common ones are reishi, turkey tail, shiitake and maitake. Medicinal mushrooms are believed to enhance our immune system and this is the suspected manner in which they protect us from cancer.

Studies on cancer-fighting properties have focused on turkey tail and reishi mushrooms. Turkey tail mushrooms effectively protect us from gastric cancer, breast cancer, colorectal cancer, and lung cancer. Studies show that reishi mushrooms are beneficial for lung cancer and colorectal cancer. (Medicinal Mushrooms (PDQ®)–Patient Version, 2019)

References

5 Stunning Health Benefits Of Medicinal Mushrooms. (2018, July 11). Retrieved from Food Revolution Network: https://foodrevolution.org/blog/medicinal-mushrooms-benefits/

Beans and Cancer. (n.d.). Retrieved from The Bean Institute: http://beaninstitute.com/beans-cancer/

Berries Seem to Burst with Cancer Protection. (2013). Retrieved from American Institute for Cancer Research: http://www.aicr.org/publications/newsletter/2013-spring-119/berries-seem-to-burst-with-cancer-prevention.html

Black rice is the new cancer-fighting superfood, claim scientists. (2010, August 27). Retrieved from Daily Mail UK: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-1306356/Black-rice-new-cancer-fighting-superfood-claim-scientists.html

Bollinger, T. (2015, August 25). How Legumes Fight Cancer (and Gas-Free Tips to Boot). Retrieved from The Truth About Cancer: https://thetruthaboutcancer.com/legumes-fight-cancer/

Castiglioni S, M. J. (2011, September 24). Magnesium and cancer: a dangerous liason. Retrieved from NCBI: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21933757

Collier, J. (2018, July 12). Could berries help to fight cancer? Retrieved from Medical News Today: https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321410.php

Consuming garlic and onions may lower colorectal cancer risk. (2019, February 19). Retrieved from Science Daily: https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2019/02/190221095057.htm

Cruciferous Vegetables and Cancer Prevention. (2012, June 7). Retrieved from National Cancer Institute: https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/diet/cruciferous-vegetables-fact-sheet

Dr. David Jockers DC, M. C. (2017, July 24). Quercetin: Discover How this Unknown Flavonoid Fights 7 Major Types of Cancer. Retrieved from The Truth About Cancer: https://thetruthaboutcancer.com/quercetin-fights-cancer/

Flaxseed and Cancer Survivorship. (n.d.). Retrieved from American Institute for Cancer Research: http://www.aicr.org/patients-survivors/healthy-or-harmful/flaxseed.html

Foods That Fight Cancer. (n.d.). Retrieved from American Institute for Cancer Research: http://www.aicr.org/foods-that-fight-cancer/foodsthatfightcancer_grapes_and_grape_juice.html

Hong-Mei Zhang, L. Z.-W. (2014, June 11). Research progress on the anticarcinogenic actions and mechanisms of ellagic acid. Retrieved from NCBI: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4069806/

Joe Leech, M. (2018, June 28). 11 Proven Health Benefits of Garlic. Retrieved from Healthline: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/11-proven-health-benefits-of-garlic

Lu’o’ng KV, N. L. (2013). The role of thiamine in cancer: possible genetic and cellular signaling mechanisms. Retrieved from NCBI: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23893925

Medicinal Mushrooms (PDQ®)–Patient Version. (2019, January 17). Retrieved from National Cancer Institute: https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/treatment/cam/patient/mushrooms-pdq

Mey, R. (2019, March 1). 13 Cancer-Fighting Foods According to Science–#10 Kills Tumor Cells Without Damaging Healthy Ones. Retrieved from The Epoch Times: https://www.theepochtimes.com/13-cancer-fighting-foods-according-to-science-10-kills-tumor-cells-without-damaging-healthy-ones_2811011.html

Minton, B. (2015, January 14). How Eating Certain Beans Cuts the Risk of These 5 Cancers. Retrieved from Natural Society: http://naturalsociety.com/eating-certain-beans-cuts-risk-5-cancers/

Omega 3. (n.d.). Retrieved from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center: https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/omega-3

Pajkovic, R. B. (2009, October 8). Multitargeted therapy of cancer by lycopene. Retrieved from NCBI: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2615641/

Sengupta A, G. S. (2004). Allium vegetables in cancer prevention: an overview. Retrieved from NCBI: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15373701

Setiawan VW, Y. G. (2005). Allium vegetables and stomach cancer risk in China. Retrieved from NCBI: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16236005

Turmeric. (2019, January 9). Retrieved from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Institute: https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/turmeric

Wong, C. (2019, March 19). The Health Benefits of Allicin . Retrieved from Very Well Health: https://www.verywellhealth.com/the-benefits-of-allicin-88606