Monday, September 5, 2011

Superfoods that Fight Cancer

Cancer is considered as the "silent killer" since it will just manifest its true nature when it has inflicted serious damage in your body - that most often lead to death. As the nation's second most deadly disease, cancer brings several risk factors with it. Thus, it is just logical that we take a good look at the foods we consume that are known to help reduce cancer risks.



What are these Foods?
It's great to start introducing nutrient-rich foods to help our body ward off diseases. A dietary habit that's rich in fiber, vegetables, fruits, and juices made from organic ingredients can make a huge impact in preventing cancer. 
  • Foods that are rich in phytochemicals - found in beans and cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, and brussels sprouts, are very strong options. 
  • Dark green leafy vegetables such as romaine lettuce, spinach, collard greens, are pumped up with lutein, carotenoids, and fibers that make these vegetables cancer-fighting foods. 
  • Tomatoes are also considered as cancer-fighting foods. Aside from its lycopene content, the antioxidant phytochemical it contains helps prevent heart disease. It's a good source of vitamins A, C, and E - your shield that battles against cancer-causing elements. You should try to add tomatoes on your salad or top it on your homemade pizza. Tomatoes are great ingredients for your favorite sandwich recipe too!
  • The watermelon is stuffed with lots of antioxidants. A daily serving assures you of your 80% vitamin C daily requirement. It is also a great source of vitamin A and beta carotene. It also contains lycopene like tomatoes. 
  • Berries such as strawberries and blueberries are rich in vitamin C and fiber. They are very simple finger foods that you can add on your favorite whole grain cereal meal, oatmeal, or low-fat yogurt. 

It's really great to focus more on foods that are rich in vitamins A, C, and E - they're all anti-oxidants. These vitamins serve as your shield from cancer by preventing the growth of free radicals in your body. 

Additional Information:
One-quarter of kidney beans and two ounces of red meat has the same amount of fiber and protein. If you like pasta, you can make a healthy pasta using kidney beans, broccoli, and whole wheat pasta - this will definitely serve you with your vitamins A, C, and E needs. You can mix it up with your favorite low-fat dressing for a serving of cancer-fighting meal!