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April 03, 2007
Eight Cancer-Fighting Nutrients
Studies have shown these healthy items contain phytochemicals. Fruits and vegetables of at least three colors should be eaten daily; each supplies specific nutrients, and the colors are a clue to those nutrients.
The foods included in this list are top contenders for cancer-fighting champions. The more color one can include from foods they eat, the more phytochemicals and antioxidants are consumed, which provide the body with powerful tools to fight damage caused by everyday living. The darker the color of fruit or vegetables, the more vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals it contains.
Flax: These seeds are found in cereal, bread, cereal bars, crackers, vitamin supplements and flax-oil capsules. They are a notable source of lignan, which may block hormone-related cancer.
Garlic: This is a key source of phytochemicals known as allylic sulfides. Animal studies show that garlic may help fight cancer by stimulating enzymes that detoxify cancer-causing agents.
Strawberries: This fruit is a key source of ellagic acid, a potent anticarcinogen that acts as an antioxidant.
Green tea: The flavonols in green tea have been shown to have antioxidant, anti-cancer and immune-system regulating effects.
Soy: From soybeans, soy is found in tofu, soy cheese, soy milk, soy yogurt and miso soup. Isoflavones are the key phytochemicals found in soy. Studies suggest that isoflavones help fight cancer.
Tomatoes: Tomatoes contain lycopene, which is an antioxidant carotenoid thought to protect against several cancers (especially prostate), heart disease and possibly bone loss.
Carrots: Beta carotene is the primary phytochemical in carrots. A 16-year study of American female nurses found that women who ate five or more carrots a week had a 60 percent lower risk of developing lung cancer.
Broccoli: Research shows the cancer-fighting abilities of sulforaphane in cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli reduce the risk of cancer of the bowel, stomach, breast, lungs and kidneys.
Posted by Lisa at April 3, 2007 07:49 AM
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