Food should be a priority when thinking about health concerns because of its ability to impact bioactivity. Cancer rates are high and sadly many of us could probably name a few people who have undergone treatment for cancer.
For many cancer patients particularly those undergoing chemotherapy and radiation, cell death is inevitable. However, when there is somewhat of a malfunction in the cells the healthy cells die off and the damaged cells get stronger. This phenomenon is called apoptosis.
By eating certain foods our bodies can interestingly alter gene expression and influence cancer according to a study conducted by Pennsylvania State University Nutritional Sciences department. It is believed that bioactive foods can help in preventing cancer in addition to preventing health cells from dying.
Foods to include in your diet:
- Green Tea has one of the best sources of a specific flavonoid called catechins. These flavonoids have been researched and proven to decrease the growth of cancer particularly in breast, liver and prostate and lung cancer. If you decided to try green tea use the loose tea and brew a pot instead of the supplements. The “cuppa of tea” is better absorbed and it lessens the adverse effects that supplements may cause. However, it does contain caffeine and this should be taken into consideration if you are on a caffeine free diet.
- Legumes are another great addition to the diet for any person but the phytochemicals saponin, phytica acid will all help with preventing cancer cell reproduction. Legumes are packed with folate, which helps with cell division and repair, not to mention they are high in fiber. Try eating more peas, beans and lentils, which are full of powerhouse nutrients.
- Berries have antioxidants, which slows the growth of cancer cells. Blueberries in particular have one of the most potent antioxidants known as anthocyanosides, which is a phenolic compound.
- Tomatoes are a wonderful color red, which contributes to its containing lycopene, which interrupts blood flow starving cancer cells to death.