A Healthy You: Foods that Fight Cancer

Cindy Gates RD, LDMany people wonder what to eat to prevent cancer or to prevent cancer recurrence. A new web site  has been launched by the American Institute for Cancer Research to explore this topic.Anyone can go to this website and look up info on such things as broccoli, blueberries, and other cancer-fighting foods. The website will show the research behind these foods and drinks, and incldues helpful tips and recipes. New foods will be continually added.No single food can prevent cancer, but research does show that a predominantly plant-based diet may help. Fruits, veggies and other plant based foods are generally low in calories, which helps us get to and stay at a healthy weight. This is important because extra body fat may increase the risk of different cancers.Broccoli belongs to a group of veggies from the cruciferous family. The four-petal flowers from these veggies resemble a cross or crucifer, hence the name. Other cruciferous veggies include Brussels Sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, kale and collard greens.They are all excellent sources of vitamin C, fiber, antioxidants and something called glucosinolates. Studies show that Glucosinolates decrease inflammation which is a risk factor for cancer, inhibit enzymes that activate carcinogens and stimulate enzymes that de-activate carcinognens.It is recommended that we increase our cruciferous vegetables to 5 to 7 servings a week. So try raw, cooked, steamed, stir frys, etc.Healthy You is a regular column about nutrition, healthy living and cancer care. It is written by Cindy Gates, RD and LD and the Cancer Center’s Oncology dietitian, herbalist and Certified Wellness Coach.