Cancer is one of the greatest health concerns of modern times. Not only does this terrible disease have a high morbidity rate, but even the most easily treatable cancers can be very expensive and time-consuming to remove from the body. For these reasons, much research has been done into the possibility of preventing cancer through healthier lifestyle choices, particularly with regards to diet. Here are some of the top all-natural foods that have been shown to lower your risk of developing certain cancers.
Pomegranate Juice
Long known as a Mediterranean delicacy, the pomegranate fruit and the juice from it contain powerful antioxidants that can help to reduce the risk of cancer in those who consume it on daily basis. Most of the research into the anti-cancer effects of pomegranate juice have revolved around prostate cancer in men, one of the most common types of cancer. More recently, however, evidence has emerged to suggest that the compounds that make pomegranate juice effective in fighting prostate cancer could have similar effects on breast cancer as well.
Yogurt
Most people are familiar with the health benefits of yogurt in terms of it being a healthy snack for weight loss and a great source of protein. However, this unassuming dairy product has also been shown to combat the growth of cancer cells. Yogurt is made with beneficial bacteria cultures, which are the reason for its digestive benefits. One of the principal bacteria used in yogurt production, lactobacillus, has powerful immune-bolstering properties. When eaten regularly, lactobacillus in yogurt actually makes the human immune system better at attacking cancerous cells. When combined with its many other benefits, this ability to fight cancer makes yogurt one of the most remarkable health foods available anywhere.
Olive Oil
Over the years, extra-virgin olive oil has been shown to have many health benefits. Among the most important of these is its ability to lower the risk of cancer in those who consume it regularly. In particular, cancers of breast and digestive tract tissue occur less frequently in those who eat a diet rich in olive oil. Fatty acids and antioxidants that occur naturally in olive oil are believed to be the main mechanisms that reduce cancer risks. In addition to its cancer-reducing properties, olive oil also has cardiovascular and immune system benefits. For those who are trying to incorporate more healthy fats into their diets, using olive oil instead of butter is a great way to add flavor to lean meals without including unhealthy fats.
Broccoli
As odd as it may sound, one of the world’s best anti-cancer vegetables may be sitting in your crisper drawer or growing in your garden at this very moment. Common broccoli contains compounds that provide systemic protection against the growth of cancer cells. Most major organs in the human body will have a lower risk of developing cancerous tumors if broccoli is eaten frequently. The same compounds are also contained in cauliflower, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, turnips, and kale.
Even though you can never eliminate the risk of cancer entirely, a healthy diet containing cancer-preventing foods can have a substantial impact on how at risk you are. Remember, the key to getting the maximum benefit out of these and other anti-cancer foods is to eat them regularly. By doing so, you will give your body regular access to the chemical compounds that it needs to fight off cancer effectively. You should also be aware that even the best diet is not a replacement for regular medical checkups. Even if you eat every anti-cancer food on a regular basis, you should still be checked from time to time.