Cancer Prevention Diet

Cancer is a devastating condition due to its high rate of mortality, so if you want to avoid getting this disease as you age you need to start your prevention plan with what you put in your mouth. Diet can play a huge role in your long-term health, as there are foods known to reduce your risk of developing cancer. Filling your diet with these superfoods is a great insurance policy against this deadly disease.

Fruits and Vegetables

• Basing your diet on fruits and vegetables can protect you against lung cancer because vegetables contain carotenoids. Fruits and vegetables also reduce the risk of breast cancer, while soy reduces the risk of prostate cancer.
  Try to eat five servings of fruits and vegetables each day, choosing those that are rich in color, as they typically provide the most nutrients and vitamins. Foods like leafy greens, blueberries and pomegranates are all packed with cancer-fighting nutrients.

Grains

• Choosing high-fiber whole grains over processed wheat products can protect you from cancer, as they can improve your digestive system, sparing you from bowel or other digestive-system cancers. Whole grains also contain phytoestrogens, which can reduce chances of getting certain female reproductive cancers. Look for whole-grain products with at least four grams of fiber per serving with the goal of getting 28 to 34 grams of fiber per day.

Foods to Avoid

• Some foods can increase your risk of cancer, including large amounts of red meat, which has a high concentration of fat. High-fat foods should only make up about 30 percent of your food intake.
  In addition, opt for baking when preparing food at home, as grilling can introduce carcinogens, which have been shown to cause cancer. Finally, restrict your sodium intake, as it can lead to higher blood pressure and an overall weakened immune system.