5 FOODS TO FIGHT BREAST CANCER
Breast being a common type of cancer in women has become a huge cause of concern over the years. Since one in every eight women suffer from this disease, it is therefore important to know the various reasons and preventive measures for breast cancer and here I have a few dietary dos and don’ts which we must follow. Here are few foods which help in either preventing or recovering from cancer in general and breast cancer in particular.
• Pomegranate
Pomegranate is often referred to as an “anti-cancer” fruit due to the high anti-oxidant content in it. The ‘ellagitannin’ cells found in pomegranate seeds suppress the abnormal secretion of estrogen, thereby preventing the growth of estrogen-responsive malignant tumours. Pomegranate also helps in increasing the haemoglobin count of the blood, which is very important for people suffering from cancer.
• Cinnamon
This commonly used spice is very rich in iron and other minerals which not only help in fighting cancer but also helps in improving body metabolism. Cinnamon suppresses the vascular endothelial growth factor which results in tumours in blood vessels. Cinnamon also has antibacterial and insecticidal properties which ensure better functioning of the body. It contains the compounds which are often used for chemotherapy to fight breast cancer. Apart from this, cinnamon also helps in reducing blood glucose concentration by regulating insulin secretion by the “islets of Langerhans” cells of the pancreas,
• Walnuts
Walnuts are highly rich in antioxidants, which not only prevent the growth of cancer cells but also reduce the rate of multiplication of cells in a person suffering from cancer. Including walnuts in the regular diet of women reduces the chances of breast cancer up to 40%. It is the presence of omega 3 fatty acids, melatonin and various vitamin compounds which reduce the abnormal multiplication of cells, especially near the breast region. Studies say, walnuts both suppress the growth of cells that can cause breast cancer and stimulate the production of cells that prevent breast cancer. So, it is a must to include walnuts in your diet every day.
• BROCCOLI
Since breast cancer is generally associated with lumps found near the lung region, this vegetable which is rich in Vitamin C and Vitamin K suppresses this inflammation altogether. Studies have proved people who consume broccolis in their everyday life are less susceptible to the various types of breast cancer. It is also the presence of various soluble fibres in broccoli that reduces the risk of cancer.
• STRAWBERRIES
The Latest studies have it that strawberries contain a number of chemical compounds which prevent the risk of breast cancer in women. Strawberries, however, take long to react. They should be consumed from an early age so that the body does not produce genes which stimulate metastasis, especially near the breast region.