Wednesday, September 8, 2010

Fighting Cancer with your Diet

I'm learning that there's a lot of minor dietary adjustments that can help prevent cancers. Today, I want to review 10 of the more interesting suggestions I've uncovered. Although diet is just one of many factors that can contribute to the likelihood of cancer, it is one that is easy to control.

1) Eat sauerkraut: "A Finnish study found that the fermentation process involved in making sauerkraut produces several other cancer-fighting compounds, including ITCs, indoles, and sulforaphane. To reduce the sodium content, rinse canned or jarred sauerkraut before eating" (usaeu.net).

2) Eat brocolli raw or steamed, not microwaved: Microwaving brocolli kills the cancer-fighting flavonoids.

3) Add garlic to everything! Garlic has been shown stimulate the immune system and is very powerful for combating cancer.

4) Eat cantaloupe: They're a great source of carotenoids.

5) Eat blueberries: They are powerful antioxidants.

6) Smother barbecue food with a thick layer of sauce: "Grilling meat can create a variety of cancer-causing chemicals. But researchers from the American Institute for Cancer Research found that coating the meat with a thick marinade and thereby preventing direct contact with the charring flames reduced the amount of such chemicals created. Another tip: Precook your meat in the oven and then throw it on the grill to finish" (usaeu.net).

7) Drink lots of water

8) Eat kiwis: They are a powerhouse of vitamins and antioxidants.

9) Cut fat and high-fat protein out of your diet

10) Eat artichokes: They are a great source of antioxidants.

When Lucy finally kicks NHL, I think we'll both be sure to follow these dietary suggestions in our daily lives!

1 comment:

  1. Sauerkraut?! Who knew. I will have to use this trivia at my next grill out...

    ReplyDelete