Cancer is the second-leading cause of death in the world. But survival rates are improving for many types of cancer, thanks to improvements in cancer screening, treatment and prevention. It is a Multifactorial disease which requires a multifactorial approach. Cancer cells can only run-on sugar. You cut off their food source, they die. That’s the theory, and it’s been shown to be, often, very effective in many difficult to treat cancers, which is now undergoing a lot of research”.
Tobacco use, Smoking, alcohol consumption, unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, increased intake of processed and packaged foods are risk factors for cancer.
So, what foods should you load up on / avoid to give your body the best chance of steering clear of cancer?
1. Limit sugary drinks / Carbonated beverages– Add 1 glass of fresh vegetable juice in your diet instead
2. Eat nuts and seeds
3. Avoid ultra-processed foods–
Ultra-processed foods are foods containing ingredients that are significantly modified from their original form. They often contain additives like added sugar, highly refined oil, salt, preservatives, artificial sweeteners, colors, and flavors as well
Examples include:
#Snack cakes
#Frozen meals
#Frozen salami/ sausages/ bacon
#Canned foods
#Chips
4. Feed your gut bacteria–
Good ways to improve gut health include eating probiotic foods like yogurt and sauerkraut, taking probiotic supplements — when indicated — and eating plenty of fibre. Notably, fibre serves as a prebiotic, or a food source for our gut bacteria
5. Don’t eat heavily Charred meats–
Meat can be a nutritious and healthy part of your diet. It’s very high in protein and a rich source of nutrients.
However, problems occur when meat is charred or burnt. This charring can lead to the formation of harmful compounds that may increase your risk for certain cancers
6. Take Vitamin D if you’re deficient-
Most people do not get enough vitamin D. While these widespread vitamin D inadequacies are not imminently harmful, maintaining adequate vitamin D levels can help to optimize your health by improving bone strength, reducing symptoms of depression, strengthening your immune system, and lowering your risk for cancer
12. Eat a Rainbow…add plenty of fruits and vegetables-
Vegetables and fruits are loaded with prebiotic fibre, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, many of which have potent health effects. Include at least 4-5 servings of vegetables and 2 servings of fruit on a daily basis.
13. Eat adequate Protein–
Eating enough protein is vital for optimal health, as it provides the raw materials your body needs to create new cells and tissues
15. Don’t Smoke or use drugs, and only drink in moderation-
Smoking, harmful use of drugs, and alcohol abuse can all seriously negatively affect your health.
17. Add antioxidants which reduces the free radicals and keeps the body’s cells healthy like wheat grass juice, beetroot juice, tomatoes, kale, broccoli, apple, pomegranate
18. Fibre up– add green leafy vegetables like spinach, cabbage, broccoli, beans, carrots, drumsticks, bell peppers in your diet
A few simple steps can go a long way toward improving your eating patterns and wellness.