Can functional foods help prevent cancer?
This article will explore the important role functional foods play in cancer prevention. Functional foods have an effect that is positive on the health of a person beyond nutrition. These foods promote optimal health, and reduce disease risk. In my role as a nutritionist and dietician, I'll share research -based insights about the foods that can help reduce cancer risk. Explore the role of functional food in your diet, and learn how it can help prevent cancer.
Cancer Prevention: Functional Foods are Important
Functional foods play a vital role in the prevention of cancer. They contain bioactive substances that have health benefits above and beyond the nutritional value. A study in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, for example, found bioactive compounds contained in functional food could reduce inflammation and inhibit cancer cell growth.
They're also important to overall health and wellness. Functional foods are also important for your overall wellness and health. It's important to keep in mind that functional foods, while they can reduce the risk of developing cancer, should also be part of a healthy lifestyle. A single food, or component of food, cannot protect against cancer. A diet rich in vegetables, beans, grains and fruits can boost the immune system.
Get Started with Functional Foods
Start by adding fruits, vegetables and whole grains to your diet. According to the American Institute for Cancer Research , plant-based food, which contains many beneficial nutrients, should make up at least two thirds of your meal. Limiting red meat and processed food can also increase your risk of developing certain cancers.
It's important to keep a healthy diet. If you add functional foods without taking into account the overall nutritional balance, it can cause other health problems.
Functional Foods for Cancer Prevention
- Broccoli: Studies have shown that broccoli is rich in sulforaphane. This plant-based compound may possess potent anticancer effects.
- Garlic consumption has been linked to a reduced risk of stomach cancer and colon cancer according to the National Cancer Institute.
- Green tea: Researchers have discovered that catechins found in green tea may inhibit cancer cell growth.
- Antioxidants in blueberries can prevent cancer.
- Turmeric: Curcumin (the active ingredient of turmeric) can help reduce cancer cell spread.
- Tomatoes contain lycopene. This antioxidant could help prevent prostate cancer.
- Whole Grain: Whole grains are rich in fiber, and they also contain compounds that may reduce your risk of developing colorectal carcinoma.
- Beans are high in fibre, which may protect against colorectal carcinoma.
- Flaxseeds contain lignans that can help fight cancer.
- Vitamin C in oranges can protect against cancer and free radicals.
Other Tips
Maintaining a healthy life style is just as important as incorporating functional food into your diet. Cancer prevention can be achieved by avoiding alcohol and tobacco, getting enough sleep, managing stress, engaging in regular physical activity and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Remember to speak to your doctor or nutritionist about any changes you make to your diet.
Conclusion
Functional foods can play an important role in the prevention of cancer by supplying our bodies with bioactive substances and essential nutrients that reduce cancer risk. It's also important to keep in mind that functional foods are best consumed as part of a well-balanced diet. You can begin your journey to better health today by adding more functional food into your diet.
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