Can Diet Prevent Cancer? -

Cancer is a class of diseases characterized by an out-of-control cell growth. There are over 100 different types of cancer, and each is classified by the type of cell that is initially affected. In 2021, over 1.7 million people were diagnosed with cancer. This staggering statistic emphasizes the importance of preventing and combatting cancer. The food you eat is one way to do that.

The Biology of Cancer

While forming, our bodies undergo a stage named angiogenesis during which all blood vessels are created. However, this activity does not stop after we are born. It is also present later in our lives when we suffer injuries that cut through our skin, veins, or arteries, and the need for rebuilding the blood canals arises.

Often this process is linked to the spread of cancer. It is orchestrated by what are called activators and inhibitors. Almost all research related to cancer focus mainly on the inhibitors, however, it is actually the activators who promote and boost the vascular growing of cells, so that new blood vessels can be created.

Why is your diet important during cancer treatment?

Since cancer treatment can lead to fluctuations in appetite and body weight, it’s important to pay close attention to your diet. In addition to helping you maintain a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet during chemotherapy or radiation therapy can:

Help manage treatment side effects
Increase energy
Increase muscle tone
Preserve immune function
Reduce inflammation

5 Foods to Prevent Cancer

The 5 foods listed below are anti-angiogenesis, meaning they can keep cancer cells from spreading. Eating these foods can impact the spread of cancer.

1. Blueberries and Cancer

Blueberries

are plants that are well known for their anti – cancer capabilities, especially when it comes to ovarian cancer. They contain phytochemicals, which is the reason they have their dark hue. This is the secret to their effectiveness, which has been proven to be great for cancer prevention. Furthermore, blueberries are also known to have a decreasing effect on oxidative stress and angiogenesis.

2. Green Tea and Coffee and Cancer

Besides the fact that both coffee and green tea, are the most popular daily consummated drinks, they decrease the chances of cancer development. Both have polyphenols that studies show hinder the growth of cancer cells. Their components also protect cells, support DNA repair, and lower inflammation. Caffeine, of which both drinks have high amounts, has been recognized in the health benefits these bring to the table.

3. Cancer and Tomatoes

According to research, there is up to 50% reduction in chances for prostate cancer in people who regularly ate cooked tomatoes. It was proven that tomatoes are incredibly effective in inhibiting the angiogenesis. These fruits are so effective because they contain high amounts of a substance called lycopene, which has strong anti–angiogenic properties.

Experts explain that lycopene is easily distributed through the body’s digestion system due to the fact it breaks down in our bodies’ fat. In addition, lycopene concentration increases when it is subjected to higher temperatures. That is why cooked tomatoes are very effective when it comes to stopping cancer growth.

4. Chocolate and Cancer

You may find this hard to believe, but Dark chocolate, an incredibly tasty desert, also happens to be incredibly healthy to eat. It is good for your heard, your overall happiness, and for fighting cancer cells. The flavanols in cocoa help guard against inflammation and cell damage. Go for dark chocolate that is at least 50 percent cocoa, and be careful to make this an occasional indulgence. You still have to watch out for the sugar and fat in dark chocolate.

5. Turmeric and Cancer

This plant has various health benefits, and it is well known by the effectiveness in fat reduction, turmeric is also used as a preventive measure against cancer. Curcumin, the main active ingredient in turmeric, hinders signaling between certain types of cells. It is also lowers inflammation, a risk factor for cancer. Lab studies also show that curcumin can make chemotherapy more effective and can safeguard cells during radiation.