My Aunt May died of breast cancer this past October, which ironically was breast cancer-awareness month, and her illness and death impacted me in profound ways. I have long been a promoter of living a healthy lifestyle and, in the case of lowering your risk for developing cancer, studies have shown that eating a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can significantly lower your risk for developing many types of cancer. The following five foods are high on the list of cancer-fighting foods according to Erin Dummert, RD, CD:
1) TOMATOES: Tomatoes contain lycopene, which has been shown to reduce the risk of prostate, ovarian, and cervical cancer. Spaghetti sauce, tomato paste and ketchup are products with high concentrations of tomatoes. Make sure the ketchup you purchase is organic and does NOT contain high fructose corn syrup.
2) BROCCOLI SPROUTS: Broccoli sprouts contain sulforaphane, which may reduce the risk of stomach, breast, and skin cancer. Broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and brussel sprouts also contain sulforaphane, however, broccoli sprouts are more potent.
3) BERRIES: Berries contain anthocyanins, which are potent antioxidants that give berries their rich color. These antioxidants protect against a variety of cancers including stomach and esophageal. Examples of berries include acai, blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, etc.
4) SOYBEANS: Soybeans, and other soybean foods such as tofu, soy nuts, and soy milk, contain isoflavones. Isoflavones protect cells from the harmful effects of estrogen and help to reduce the risk of breast and prostate cancer.
5) TEA: Catechins are potent antioxidants that are naturally contained in green and black teas. These antioxidants are powerful inhibitors of cancer growth and may reduce the risk of liver, skin, and stomach cancer.
Part two of cancer-fighting foods will be discussed in next month’s fitness tip. Start including these cancer-fighting foods in your diet today!
Michael Brummer
Certified Personal Trainer
Melissa wrote: “Watermelon has more lycopene than tomatoes for those tummys or taste buds that cannot handle tomatoes;) ORGANIC is key! And stay clear of GMO’d soybeans or soy products. Good info, thanks Jen and Michael!”