One of the best ways to promote good health and protect yourself against cancer is through your diet. According to the American Cancer Society, one-third of all American cancer deaths may be diet-related. Some of the foods on this list can help stave off cancer by inhibiting cell growth or reducing tumor size.
1. Broccoli, Cabbage, and Cauliflower
Broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower contain a chemical component called indole-3-carbinol. This compound can combat breast cancer by converting cancer-promoting estrogen into a more productive variety. Broccoli, particularly the sprouts, also contains a phytochemical called sulforaphane. This substance is believed to help prevent certain types of cancer, including colon and rectal cancer. Sulforaphane promotes the production of enzymes that deactivate free radicals and carcinogens.
2. Carrots
Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which can help reduce the risk of a wide range of cancers, including breast, prostate, bladder, intestine, lung, mouth, throat, and stomach cancers. A substance in carrots called falcarinol has been shown to reduce cancer risk. Studies suggest that isolated cancer cells grow more slowly when exposed to falcarinol.
3. Kale
Like broccoli, kale contains indoles that help prevent the conversion of certain lesions into cancerous cells. Additionally, kale has phytochemicals that may suppress tumor growth and block cancer-causing substances from reaching their target.
4. Mushrooms
Eating mushrooms such as shiitake, maitake, reishi, Agaricus Blazei Murill, or Coriolus Versicolor can help fight cancer. These mushrooms contain chemicals that support immune system function. They also have a protein called lectin, which attacks cancerous cells and prevents their multiplication.
5. Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are packed with anti-cancer properties. They contain beta-carotene, which is believed to protect DNA in the cell nucleus from cancer-causing chemicals outside the nuclear membrane.
6. Avocados
Avocados are rich in the powerful antioxidant glutathione, which helps block the intestinal absorption of certain fats and neutralizes free radicals in the body.
7. Chili Peppers and Jalapenos
Chili peppers and jalapenos contain capsaicin, a substance believed to neutralize cancer-causing compounds known as nitrosamines.
8. Figs
Figs contain a derivative of benzaldehyde, which is highly effective at shrinking tumors.
9. Grapefruits
Like other citrus fruits, grapefruits contain monoterpenes, which are believed to fight cancer by flushing carcinogens out of the body. Grapefruits also contain other cancer-fighting substances like vitamin C, beta-carotene, and folic acid.
10. Grapes
Red grapes are rich in bioflavonoids, powerful antioxidants that help prevent cancer. They also contain resveratrol, which inhibits the enzymes that stimulate cancer cell growth and helps suppress the immune response.
11. Oranges and Lemons
Oranges and lemons contain limonene, a substance that stimulates lymphocytes, the cancer-killing immune cells. They may also help break down cancer-causing substances. Oranges are also beneficial for dental health, helping to keep your gums healthy by strengthening blood vessels and connective tissues. The vitamin C in oranges may prevent or slow the progression of gingivitis, offering a natural alternative to dental care.
12. Papayas
Papayas are rich in vitamin C, an antioxidant that reduces the absorption of cancer-causing nitrosamines. They also contain folic acid, which helps minimize cervical dysplasia, a precursor to cervical cancer.
13. Raspberries
Raspberries contain anthocyanin, an antioxidant that may help protect against cancer. Raspberries offer more cancer-preventing properties than blueberries and strawberries.
14. Tomatoes
Tomatoes are high in lycopene, which targets free radicals believed to trigger cancer. Studies have linked lycopene consumption to a reduced risk of breast, prostate, pancreatic, and colorectal cancers. Tomatoes also contain vitamin C, which helps prevent cell damage that can lead to cancer.
15. Seeds and Nuts
Flax seeds contain lignans, which may have an antioxidant effect, blocking or suppressing cancerous changes in cells. Flax is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, believed to protect against colon cancer. Nuts also contain antioxidants that help suppress the growth of cancer.
16. Garlic
Garlic contains immune-boosting allium, which is believed to enhance the activity of immune cells that fight cancer and indirectly break down substances that cause cancer.
17. Rosemary
A study found that an extract of rosemary called carnosol helps inhibit the development of breast and skin tumors in animals.
18. Red Wine
Whether consumed with or without alcohol, red wine contains polyphenols that help protect against a variety of cancers. Polyphenols are potent antioxidants that fight free radicals.
19. Soy
Soy products contain phytoestrogens, nonsteroidal estrogens that can prevent both breast and prostate cancer by suppressing and blocking cancerous changes.
20. Green and Black Tea
Tea contains polyphenols, antioxidants believed to prevent cancer by inhibiting the division of cancer cells.
21. Seaweed
Seaweed and other sea vegetables are packed with beta-carotene, protein, fiber, vitamin B12, chlorophyll, and chlorophylones. Chlorophylones are fatty acids that help fight breast cancer.
