Is There a Link Between Food and Cancer?
Cancer is constantly being researched, and we’re always learning more about how to protect ourselves against it. It’s estimated that 30 to 40 percent of can be prevented by lifestyle and diet alone, and there’s strong evidence to suggest an anti-cancer diet can be adopted.
Certain dietary choices have been linked to either an excess or lower risk of cancer. Foods such as concentrated sugars, refined flour products, and red meat are associated with increased cancer risk, while a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and specific nutrients can contribute to cancer prevention. Here’s a breakdown:
Linked to excess cancer risk:
Nutrient sparse foods such as concentrated sugars and refined flour products
Low fibre intake
Red meat
Imbalance of omega 3 and omega 6 fats
Alcohol
Fast food
Linked to lower cancer risk:
Flax seed
Abundant portions of fruits and vegetables
Allium and cruciferous vegetables
Broccoli sprouts
Whole grains
Beans
There are some preventative measures you can take. Here are some protective elements for a cancer-prevention diet:
Selenium
Folic acid
Vitamin B-12
Vitamin D
Chlorophyll
Antioxidants such as the carotenoids
In straightforward terms, an anti-cancer diet comprises specific food groups and nutrients that promote cancer prevention. According to Healthline, the key anti-cancer food groups include:
Vegetables
Fruit
Flax seed
Spices
Beans
Nuts
Olive oil
Garlic
Fish
Dairy
As we strive to protect ourselves against cancer, the role of diet becomes increasingly evident. By making informed choices and incorporating anti-cancer foods into our daily lives, we contribute to our overall well-being. For more information, you can also check out Healthline’s list of 13 cancer-fighting foods that goes more in-depth into specific foods that can lower your cancer risk. Start incorporating more of these foods into your diet using Easy Platter’s weekly menu builder.