‘Can’ Prevent Cancer and ‘Can’ Cure Cancer

Curcumin Present in Turmeric Contains Medicinal Properties

It has been estimated that 30–35 percent of deaths related to cancer are due to diet, physical inactivity and obesity. Cancer, like any other disease, can be prevented by consuming nutrient-rich foods along with moderate physical activity. Carcinogens are substances that cause cancer in living tissues and you would be shocked to find the list of carcinogenic agents that we come across in our everyday life. We need another list of anti-cancer agents to fight against the deadly attack of these carcinogens and safeguard ourselves from cancer.  While most of the human-population studies convey the fact that no definitive dietary component protects or causes cancer, many studies support the advantages of these top five anti-cancer foods:

1. Garlic: Garlic is high in sulfur and sulfur-containing compounds. Several studies have shown that increased garlic intake is associated with decreased risk of cancers of the upper digestive tract. Garlic bulbs can be eaten raw, cooked or seasoned. The raw form has a pungent odor and is disliked by many people. In such cases, it can be added to vegetables, soups or other dishes as a side ingredient.
2. Turmeric: Curcumin, a compound found in turmeric is said to cure various ailments, including cancer. There are only lab and animal research results which suggest that curcumin may help to prevent cancer and make the treatment more effective. Human studies are still in early stages and there is a long way to go before concluding on anything. There is no harm in including this spice in your curries as it is said to have anti-inflammatory properties as well.
3.  Cruciferous Vegetables: Cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, watercress, kale, radish and turnip are the most common cruciferous vegetables. These crucifers contain substances called glucosinolates and breaking down of these substances result in many different compounds. Lab and animal studies have found these compounds to suppress the development of cancer with inconclusive evidence on humans. Certain studies have proved that high intake of cruciferous veggies result in reduced risk of colon and prostate cancer. Read more on the health and nutrition benefits of cruciferous vegetables at the website www.firsteatright.com.
4.  Fiber-rich Foods: There are studies that equally support and deny the effects of fiber foods on lowering cancer risk, especially colorectal cancer. We focus specifically on colorectal cancer here as fiber does most of its work in the colon. The logic here is that the nutrients pass through the colon quickly all through the way flushing out the cancer-causing compounds. But there are clear evidences that show that high-fiber foods help an individual to stay on a healthy weight, thus lowering the chances of any type of cancer. Fruits, vegetables (especially beans), whole-grains and seeds are excellent sources of fiber.
5. Berries: Along with cruciferous vegetables, berries are the most powerful foods against cancer. These berries are rich in antioxidants and flavonoids which have the characteristic to reduce the risk of cancers, especially of the lungs, according to numerous studies done by the World Cancer Research Fund. Pop into your mouth one or two strawberries, cherries, cranberries, blueberries, raspberries or blueberries to reduce your risk of cancer.