Best Cancer Preventing Foods

Some of the best foods for preventing diseases like cancer are also terrific foods for your overall health and should therefore be incorporated into your diet even if you are not currently suffering from an illness.  The best anti cancer foods are those that contain high levels of antioxidants and vitamins and minerals.  Below are the best foods for good health and disease prevention.

Broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower:  These cruciferous and yummy veggies are known to contain a chemical called indole 3-carbinol.  This powerful component is a powerful weapon against breast cancer and other illnesses causes by high estrogen levels.  Colon and rectal cancer are also known to be potentially prevented by these nutrients, so load up on these cabbage family relatives.

Garlic: Garlic is a powerful immune boosting nutrient and as such has a great deal to recommend it.  On top of its general health effects however, garlic is also a cancer fighting substance.  Garlic has allium compounds called dialyl sultides which have been suggested to be responsible for breaking down cancer causing agents.   According to a recent study, people who ate garlic regularly had about half the risk of stomach cancer compared to those who didn’t.  Moreover, those hefty garlic consumers also had only two-thirds the risk of colorectal cancer.

Red grapes.  Red grapes contain important antioxidants and bioflavonoids and as such are a terrific cancer preventing fruit.  Grapes, and red wine, also contain reservatrol which can help to inhibit cancer cell growth.  Red grapes can also slow the growth of tumors because of a chemical compound that blocks enzymes devoted to cancer cells. 

Licorice root: Licorice root is a nutrient that has the power to help prevent prostrate cancer in men.  People with high blood pressure should first consult a health care practitioner before taking licorice root however as it can lead to elevated blood pressure.

Finally, mushrooms are another important anti-cancer agent.  Shitake, reishi, maitake and others are rich in polysaccharides which help to build immune function.  More than this though they are a great source of Beta Glucan.  This can help to prevent cancer cells from multiplying.

Eating these foods is a great way to maintain good health and ensure optimal health down the road.  Keeping to a healthy diet and exercise regime is the best way to stay fit and avoid health ailments, including serious diseases like cancer.