The foods that we consume play a major role in our quality of health. Years of eating foods that contain no real nutritional value have left our bodies crying out for nourishment. Oftentimes, we ignore the symptoms of stress that our bodies present to us until it is more than obvious that our health is compromised as in the case of a cancer diagnosis.
While there are various standard medical procedures that are used to treat cancer, many of these treatment methods can deplete the body of much needed nutrients and minerals. Thus, consuming foods that support overall health and well-being is very important. The following are some foods that help to prevent cancer and enhance the immune system.
1. Leafy Green Vegetables
If you want to provide your body with the nutrients and minerals it needs to fight cancer and boost the immune system, leafy green vegetables are a must. Cancer and many other diseases are not able to thrive in an alkaline environment. In order to create an alkaline environment in the body, it is important to consume foods that are high in chlorophyll.
You can choose any green leafy vegetable available as they are all loaded with tons of vitamins. Some popular choices include spinach, kale, collard greens, swiss chard, and romaine. Leafy green vegetables contain isothiocyanates that assist with cellular detox. This is very important for anyone that is interested in fighting cancer. Likewise, leafy green vegetables are rich in Vitamins A and C which help with immune support.
2. Turmeric
While you are cooking up those greens, consider adding some healthy cancer-fighting spices with turmeric. Turmeric is a golden-colored spice that is traditionally used in many Indian dishes. It contains the ingredient curcumin which is known to reduce the size of cancerous tumors.
Turmeric is better absorbed when paired with black pepper. Consider using turmeric and black pepper in your eggs for breakfast as an easy way to obtain the cancer-fighting, tumor-shrinking benefits that will keep you healthy.
3. Cruciferous Vegetables
Get ready to fight off cancer while boosting your immune system with cruciferous vegetables. Broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and bok choy are examples of some of the delicious options you can eat to protect yourself from cancer.
These particular vegetables contain a variety of nutrients that help to prevent the formation of cancer. High in fiber, cruciferous vegetables help the body to eliminate stored toxins. Furthermore, they contain isothiocyanates which break down carcinogens that can grow into cancer. The beta-carotene content in cruciferous vegetables provides antioxidant supplementation.
4. Allium Plant Foods
Using foods from the allium plant category can significantly boost immune system function. Some foods from this group include onions, leeks, and garlic. These foods contain powerful allium compounds which prevent carcinogen compounds from entering cells. Of all the allium plant foods, garlic packs quite a punch in enhancing the immune system and destroying cancer cells. As a matter of fact, studies have shown that garlic lowers the risk of both stomach and colon cancers.
5. Orange Fruits and Vegetables
Pumpkins, oranges, carrots, and sweet potatoes all share the same bright orange pigment courtesy of carotenoids. Carotenoids are antioxidants derived from Vitamin A and include beta-carotene, lutein, alpha-carotene, cryptoxanthin, and lycopene. These substances are known to provide a host of detoxifying, cancer-fighting, and immune-system-boosting qualities. Be sure to include these brightly-hued foods in your diet to reap the cancer-fighting benefits.
6. Berries
High in antioxidants and Vitamins A and C, berries are an excellent food for cancer-fighting and immune support. Blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, cherries, and blackberries are just a few examples of the options available. The antioxidant properties of berries help with reducing free-radical damage, and they also contain gallic acid which provides increased immunity.
If you are looking for ways to fight cancer, start with your diet. Consume foods that will boost your immune system and protect healthy cells while preventing the formation of cancer.