Even after exponential growth in medical sciences, we still haven’t found the cure to one of the most deadly diseases known to mankind -Cancer. Countless lives have been lost to this unforgiving disease & yet we stand helpless in front of it. Experts suggest that a change in lifestyle may reduce the risk (If not eliminate) of contracting cancer. This means that, although nobody is immune to it, the possibility of being struck with this deadly disease can be reduced considerably by just making some healthy choices & progressing towards a healthy lifestyle.
It’s a well-known fact that incorporating fresh fruits & vegetables in your daily diet boosts your immunity & helps you fight diseases. But, research & recent studies have shown that regular consumption of certain fruits & vegetables may help in reducing the risk of developing cancer, since whatever you eat directly influences your bodily functions. Thus, it becomes utmost necessary to ensure that your diet includes a wide range of fresh fruits & vegetables which will prepare your body to fight against deadly diseases.
Vegetables like Broccoli & Carrots are packed with potent plant compounds that prep your body to fight against cancer. Broccoli contains sulforaphane which is a type of plant compound that possesses powerful anti-cancer properties. A research study shows that a higher intake of carrots reduced the risk of contracting prostate cancer by 18%. Folate is another compound that has anti-cancer properties that are found in abundance in leafy vegetables like Spinach, Lettuce & Amaranthus. Cruciferous vegetables like Broccoli, Cauliflower, Cabbage, Brussels sprouts, Bok choy, and Kale contain compounds that may help your body defend against cancers such as colon, breast, lung, and cervix.
The vibrant colors of fruits & vegetables are directly linked to their nutritional content. Red Grapes contain “Resveratrol” which has strong antioxidant properties & prevents any kind of damage that triggers the cancer process in cells. Regular consumption of citrus fruits such as Lime, Lemons, Oranges, Pomelos & Mosambi has been associated with a lower risk of cancer in some studies. Berries like Strawberry contain a phytochemical called ellagic acid which is a powerful antioxidant that fights cancer in several ways at once.
Even though all these nutrients are readily available in the form of pills, researchers, doctors & fitness enthusiasts always prefer & recommend relying on natural sources of nutrition. Even if it’s impossible to be completely safe from cancer we can do our part by trying to switch to a healthy lifestyle & incorporate a healthy diet in our lifestyle.
Today, on this World Cancer Day, let’s vow to Eat Healthy, Stay Safe & Fight Cancer, together!