ADVERTISEMENT

5 foods that help reduce your risk of having cancer

One large study found that eating citrus fruits such as lemons, limes, grapefruits, and oranges have been associated with a lower risk of cancer.

5 foods that help reduce your risk of having cancer. [Medium/@quickgardenn]

While some of them, such as genetics and environment, are beyond our ability to control, 70% of cancer risk factors are within our ability to change.

Apart from avoiding cigarettes, limiting alcohol, reaching a healthy weight, and getting regular exercise, it is important to note that one way to prevent and treat cancer is through eating a nutrient-dense diet and avoiding things that are known to increase cancer risk.

It is known to every Dick and Harry that what you eat- and don't eat- have a powerful effect on your health, including your risk of having cancer.

ADVERTISEMENT

Here are five foods that reduce your cancer risk

Studies have shown that lycopene is a compound found in tomatoes that is responsible for its vibrant red color as well as its anticancer properties. This is why scientists claim that an increased intake of lycopene and tomatoes could lead to a reduced risk of prostate cancer.

However, to increase your intake of lycopene, include a serving or two of tomatoes in your diet each day by adding them to sandwiches, salads, sauces or pasta dishes.

ADVERTISEMENT

As a matter of fact, participants who ate a higher amount of citrus fruits had a lower risk of developing cancers of the digestive and upper respiratory tracts.

A review looking at nine studies also found that a greater intake of citrus fruits was linked to a reduced risk of pancreatic cancer.

Finally, a review of 14 studies showed that a high intake or at least three servings per week, of citrus fruit, reduced the risk of stomach cancer by 28%.

According to the USDA, dates are higher in total polyphenols than any of the most commonly consumed fruits or vegetables.

ADVERTISEMENT

And this is due to the fact that they grow in deserts, and the harsh environment causes polyphenols to provide protection from oxidative stress to the palm's fruit. It is, however, important to note that polyphenols, along with vitamin B6 and fiber, may help prevent certain types of cancer.

One study from the University of Michigan found that the anticancer properties of ginger cause ovarian cancer cells to die. Furthermore, it was also stated that ginger root supplements help reduce inflammation in the colon; suggesting that ginger may have potential as a preventive measure for cancer.

Studies have found that beans are high in fiber, and this fiber has been shown to protect against colorectal cancer. Thus, eating a few servings of beans each week may increase your fiber intake and help lower the risk of developing cancer.

ADVERTISEMENT

JOIN OUR PULSE COMMUNITY!

Unblock notifications in browser settings.
ADVERTISEMENT

Eyewitness? Submit your stories now via social or:

Email: eyewitness@pulse.ng

Recommended articles

How to block your Access bank account and ATM card

How to block your Access bank account and ATM card

Starting a business? Here's how to register your business name in Nigeria

Starting a business? Here's how to register your business name in Nigeria

5 reasons Easter was more fun when we were children

5 reasons Easter was more fun when we were children

5 things you need to do immediately after sex

5 things you need to do immediately after sex

Do you have to go to church on Good Friday and Holy Saturday? We explain

Do you have to go to church on Good Friday and Holy Saturday? We explain

There are many things you should not do on Easter

There are many things you should not do on Easter

The Skilled Awards 3rd edition a big success in Bowen University

The Skilled Awards 3rd edition a big success in Bowen University

6 most common wedding day regrets couples experience

6 most common wedding day regrets couples experience

7 qualities of high-value women you should cultivate

7 qualities of high-value women you should cultivate

'Ugliest woman in the world' endured humiliation to provide for her children

'Ugliest woman in the world' endured humiliation to provide for her children

I Tried an Inflatable Butt Plug and It Was Absolutely Ridiculous

I Tried an Inflatable Butt Plug and It Was Absolutely Ridiculous

3 things that could happen when you take cold drinks during your period

3 things that could happen when you take cold drinks during your period

ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT