You’ve heard the saying – eating an apple a day keeps the doctor away! While there is no doubt that natural foods contain many incredible health benefits, did you also know that some foods can help ward off illness? Your diet choices can help reduce your chances of getting heart disease, diabetes, and can even help prevent cancer. While there are no guarantees or absolutes, we’re breaking down foods touted to reduce health risks and aid in maintaining a healthy weight.
Broccoli
Broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables like cauliflower are thought to lower the risk of certain cancers such as colorectal cancer. These vegetables are high in sulforaphane, which has anti-cancer properties.
Carrots
Carrots are good for more than just helping improve our eyesight. These orange roots also contain numerous essential nutrients like cancer-fighting antioxidants, vitamin K, and vitamin A. Incorporating carrots into your daily life can reduce your chances of getting stomach and lung cancer.
Berries
Did you know berries contain loads of antioxidants, are high in fiber, and contain high levels of vitamin C, all known for their powerful risk-reducing properties when it comes to cancer?
Beans
Beans are incredibly high in fiber and are recommended to consume as part of your weekly diet. Plus, beans are proven to be a great choice when looking for foods to combat your cancer risk, particularly for their link in helping prevent breast cancer.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes have high levels of the antioxidant lycopene. Antioxidants work to protect our healthy cells from damage – and have the ability to eliminate cells that are not growing properly.
Nuts
Many studies show that nuts are powerful risk-reducers when it comes to deadly cancers such as breast, colorectal and pancreatic cancer. Snack on this: consider trading your salty snack for nuts as a heart-healthy option!
Apples
They do say an apple a day keeps the doctor away, and that’s because of the fruit’s highly-touted health benefits. Not only does the apple boast cancer-fighting properties such as polyphenols, but this beloved fruit also prevents inflammation, cardiovascular disease, and harmful infections.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is high in oleocanthal, which is known to attack cancer cells, seemingly without damaging healthy ones. According to studies, when it comes in contact with a cancerous cell, it releases enzymes that lead to the death of the cancer cells.
Citrus
Fruits such as oranges, lemons, and limes are extremely high in essential vitamins; obviously, vitamin C. These essential vitamins are known risk-reducers when it comes to developing digestive and respiratory cancers.
Flax Seeds
Typically considered as an add-on to your morning smoothie, this little ingredient offers numerous benefits. Flax seeds contain strong antioxidant-containing lignans, which can aid the body in getting rid of harmful carcinogens. They are also high in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. With their ability to boost our body’s natural immune system and reduce unwanted inflammation, flax seeds are a great addition to any healthy, well-rounded diet.