Research suggests that diet and lifestyle changes can reduce the risk of developing cancer by approximately 40%.
It also suggests that ahealthy dietcan increase the recovery from cancer.
Here, we will uncover what the research says about specific claims related to nutrition and cancer risk.
Jamie Grill/Getty Images
Jamie Grill/Getty Images
Protects Cells From Cancer
Antioxidants are compounds that stop the oxidation process.
Antioxidants also help within the body by stoppingfree radicalsfrom oxidizing and damaging cells.
Research supports this claim that antioxidants have anti-tumor, anti-carcinogenic, and anti-inflammatory effects.
Commonly recommended antioxidants include carotenoids, flavonoids, and other phytochemicals.
Carotenoids
Carotenoids are the pigment responsible for the orange, yellow, and red colors in foods.
A common carotenoid, beta carotene, is also a precursor to vitamin A.
Research shows this compound might be protective against developing cancer.
Sources of catenoids include:
Lycopene
Lycopene is a bright red pigment found in foods.
Its antioxidant effects have been associated with preventing and treating cancer.
Research has associated these with adecreased risk of developing cancer.
More research is needed before curcumin can be fully recommended for cancer treatment.
Supports Healthy DNA
Folic acid and folateare different forms of a B-vitamin.
Folate deficiency was first discovered for its importance during pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects.
Food sources include:
Phytates andphytic acidin cancer therapy has been researched for decades.
Research has associated phytic acid with decreased cell growth and decreased metastasis of tumors.
The Keto diet is high in fat, moderate in protein, and low in carbs.
Both diet and physical activity are important for maintaining a healthy weight.
Are Whole Foods Better Than Supplements?
Most of the research around the effects of foods for fighting cancer is still not fully understood.
Eating whole foods instead of supplements is recommended because whole foods provide a wider range of nutrients.
Many of these contain multiple of these cancer-fighting compounds, whereas supplements are made from isolating or manufacturing these.
For most vegetables, eating them raw will help the nutrients remain intact.
This helps to keep water in the vegetables and prevent nutrient losses.
A healthy diet can help to support your immune system and strengthen your body to fight off illness.
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