7 best natural cancer-fighting foods

Editor’s note: Aiyejino Victory Onoshi, the NAIJ.com partner blogger lists seven cancer-fighting foods every Nigerian must know.

The views expressed in this article are the author’s own and do not necessarily represent the editorial policy of NAIJ.com.

Aiyejino Victory could be reached through his e-mail info@todayradar.com. You can also follow his blog Today Radar.

The Cancer fighting foods list comprises of natural cancer-fighting diet that can be found on out local vicinity, as we all know eating wholesome food void of harsh chemicals and pesticides will boost overall health. In fact, this is why many individuals go for organic food, especially when it comes to buying vegetables and fruits. Eating enough of these powerful foods can lower the risk of heart disease, developing obesity, and even cancer. Luckily, for many of these researched cancer-fighting foods, you have to look no further than your fridge or kitchen rack.

1. Amla

An article published in the Journal of Food Science, regarding a recent research study carried out by the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT), divulged a few important facts about the gooseberry. It said, higher antioxidant activity are present in gooseberry skin and pulp.

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Many of the several studies from the past too claimed that gooseberries comprise high levels of phytochemicals which prevent oxidative stress that can cause cancer and heart diseases. Further, gooseberry skin can be a potential source of natural colourants and antioxidants used in food manufacturing.

2. Cinnamon

Medical studies carried out by experts suggests that cinnamon helps in lowering cholesterol, increasing insulin sensitivity, reducing inflammation and slowing down the growth of the cancerous tumour. In addition to these, it also fortifies an immune system, helps reduce weight and adds plenty of vital vitamin, minerals and antioxidants to your diet.

3. Ginger

Ginger is yet another powerful antioxidant spice that is used for the treatment of almost everything from cold to Alzheimer’s disease. Many research studies have revealed it’s anti-cancer properties. Ginger is known for it’s ability to shrink tumours and is said to be more effective than many cancer drugs. One study based out of Georgia State University found that whole ginger extract reduced prostate tumour size by a whopping 56% in mice.

4. Turmeric

This kind of medicinal spices is often hailed for its numerous healing properties. It is an effective antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. The active ingredient curcumin in turmeric destroys the blood vessels that feeds cancerous tumours, cutting off the blood supply to cancerous cells and thus preventing it from growing any further. It has the best effects on bowel cancer, breast cancer, stomach cancer and skin cancer cells.

5. Chillies

Chillies also join the line-up of potent, anti-cancer food. Capsaicin is the primary component of chilli peppers, that represses the growth of prostate cancer cells. As per a recent research study capsaicin is also found to arrest the growth of colon cancer cells in a laboratory setting.

6. Grapes

The beneficial effects of grape are believed to be associated to a variety of bioactive components in grapes . One such major group of these components is antioxidants. The skin of red grapes is particularly a rich source of resveratrol, an important antioxidant. As stated by National Cancer Institute, resveratrol may be useful in keeping cancer from spreading or initiating. Lab studies have found that it limits the growth of many kinds of cancer cells, and in men lowers the risk of prostate cancer.

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7. Leafy Green Vegetables

Leafy green vegetables such as lettuce and spinach are rich in antioxidants, beta-carotene and lutein. Even cruciferous veggies, like cabbage and broccoli, are good source of a sulphur-containing antioxidant compound. According to the American Institute for Cancer Research, a couple of lab studies have confirmed that chemicals in these foods may restrict the growth of some kinds of cancer cells.

So, cancer-fighting foods like these may not only cut your cancer risk, but keep you safe from other lifestyle related diseases as well, thus helping you to achieve optimal health!

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