Food, one of the items in the foundation of ‘Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs’, has been proven to be so much more than a basic human necessity. It has been extended into the realm of survival; not in terms of a basic nutrient source, but as a possible cancer fighter.
We hear it all the time in the media, headlines relating to, for example, vegetables warding off particular kinds of cancers. So if you believe in the theory that “food is your medicine”, we have gone ahead and compiled a list of foods that have gotten a lot of buzz in recent years for their anti-cancer properties. Here is list we found and the possible properties behind their effectiveness:
1. Garlic – Helps reduce the effects of carcinogens (such as seared meat)
2. Cruciform Veggies (cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, etc) - prevents cancer cells from multiplying.
3. Berries – Antioxidant properties (grapes or non-alcoholic wine are option as well)
4. Squash – Builds the immune system and inhibits cancer growth
5. Green tea – Contains epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), aka: cancer cell retardants.
6. Mushrooms – Immune boosters and cancer risk reducers. Great during chemo.
7. Dark Green Veggies (kale, beets, spinach, etc) – high in folate and blocks early cancer development.
8. Ginger & Turmeric – flavor enhancer and natural anti-inflammatory. Known to kill cancer cells in the lab.
9. Beans & Lentils – Healthy source of fiber and protein with the added bonus of preventing DNA damage – the starting line for cancer growth.
10. Seaweed – slows cancer growth, especially in the breast.
Below are some reminders that are important to keep in mind when on the path of health and wellbeing.
- Obesity is strongly linked to cancer.
- Alcohol is a proven carcinogen by the World Health Organization. For good health, no more than 1 glass of wine per week for women, and 2 glasses of wine per week for men. (As outlined in our last blog: http://blog.zenmed.com/alcohol-consumption-and-breast-cancer-the-link)
- Stress and inflammation are being studied vigorously for their actions on the growth of many tumors.
- ' Life is movement.' Regular exercise can help you lose weight as well as alleviate stress. (as outlined in our last blog: http://blog.zenmed.com/what-does-my-weight-have-to-do-with-cancer)
The statements above have not been evaluated by the FDA and by no means constitute as medical advice. These are merely opinions of the author. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or mitigate or prevent any disease, disorder, pain, injury, deformity, or physical or mental condition of any kind.