Cancer is known as the nation’s second most deadly disease and with it contains numerous risk factors. Therefore, it makes sense that we carefully look at what we are eating, and start introducing nutrient rich foods that are known to help reduce the risk of cancer. A diet rich in fibre, vegetables, and fruits including juices made from 100% fruit juice, can make a huge difference in your exposure to cancer.
Cruciferous vegetables like kale, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, and broccoli are rich in phytochemicals which are also found in beans. Dark leafy vegetables like spinach, romaine lettuce and collard greens are all packed with fibre, lutein and carotenoids, and are all cancer fighting substances. We should pay attention to foods that have abundant amounts of vitamin C, E, and A which help protect you from cancer by preventing the growth of free radicals in your body.
Watermelons are full of antioxidants and include around 80% of your daily vitamin C requirement. It is a great source of vitamin A or beta carotene and also contains lycopene like tomatoes.
Did you know that one-quarter cup of kidney beans has the same amount of fibre and protein as two ounces of red meat? Another good source of fibre is whole wheat pasta and broccoli with provide the daily requirement of vitamin C.
Blueberries and strawberries are rich in fiber and vitamin C. These foods can be easily added to your favorite whole grain cereal, oatmeal or low fat yoghurt.
Cabbage is also a cruciferous vegetable and can help reduce the risk of colon and rectal cancer. Cabbage is also rich in fiber and has almost 50% of the daily requirement of vitamin C. Another remarkable source of fiber and beta carotene is carrots. They contain about three times the daily requirement of vitamin A.
Another remarkable cancer-fighting food is tomatoes. Tomatoes contain lycopene, the antioxidant that helps prevent heart disease and are a great source of vitamins A, C and E which aid in battling against cancer by preventing free radicals. You can add tomatoes to your salad or use it as a topping on your homemade pizza.