Cancer-Fighting Foods

Put These On Your Plate

Cruciferous Veggies

Generally speaking, eating more fruits and veggies can reduce your risk of developing breast cancer by 60 percent. Cruciferous vegetables, such as cabbage, spinach, broccoli, and cauliflower,are rich in fibre and folic acid, both known to lower your risk of developing breast cancer. To get the most from their goodness, it’s recommended that you eat at least three to four cups of these crunchy veggies per week.

Olive Oil

It’s the oleic acid contained in olive oil that has anti-carcinogenic properties, blocking a gene found in roughly 30 per cent of women with breast cancer. American scientists conducting laboratory research have observed that oleic acid has a beneficial effect on breast cancer cells. Olive oil is the richest source of this acid, so whenever possible, use it in place of butter and margarine.

Berries

Eating fruit is another excellent way to help prevent the development of breast cancer. In fact, women who do eat fruit are six per cent less likely to develop the disease. The American Institute for Cancer Research considers berries (raspberries, blueberries, strawberries, etc.) to be powerful breast cancer fighters because of their high fibre, vitamin C and ellagic acid content— the latter a potent antioxidant capable of further reducing the risk of cancer.

Tomatoes

It’s the lycopene, a powerful antioxidant found in great quantities in tomatoes, that can reduce the risk of developing breast cancer. The lycopene found in canned tomatoes is more readily absorbed by the body than that contained in fresh ones, so add tomato juice, paste, and sauce to your diet.

Green tea

As a result of various studies, the American Institute for Cancer Research has concluded that components found in green tea can help halt the development of cancerous tumours, and even prevent them from appearing in the first place. Green tea contains large amounts of the compound flavonoid—indeed, three times more than that found in other teas. Three cups a day will help you reap the benefits of this powerful antioxidant.

Myreille Simard for divine.ca
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