The links between lifestyle, diet, and cancer have been well-established. A 2008 study led by scientists at the University of Texas in Houston found that "cancer is a preventable disease that requires major lifestyle changes."
More recent studies have continued to hit on these correlations, such as this 2016 study from researchers at Harvard University, which concluded, "A substantial cancer burden may be prevented through lifestyle modification."
While you can't go wrong with a plant-based diet, there are some fruits, vegetables and herbs that are highly regarded for their exceptional anti-cancer effects. These amazing benefits are derived from a number of plant nutrients:
1. Gingerols
Gingerols are found in the popular ginger root -- and they pack quite the anti-cancer punch. There are a number of gingerols and other cancer-fighting compounds found in ginger root, such as zingerone, paradols and 6-shogaol. 6-gingerol, in particular, is highly regarded for its anti-cancer effects.
A 2016 study from the Centre for Plant Biotechnology and Molecular Biology in India declared 6-gingerol as the most potent anti-cancer compound found in the ginger root. Other studies have shown compounds in ginger are able to suppress the growth and spread of cancer cells in breast and colorectal cancers.
2. Sulforaphane
Sulforaphane is a compound found in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, kale, mustard greens and cabbage. An organosulphate compund, sulforaphane has been extensively studied for its host of health benefits. As Natural Health 365 reports:
This amazing phytochemical destroys cancer cells, reduces inflammation that contributes to cancer, helps to prevent DNA changes that can lead to cancer, and even helps neutralize an enzyme that coverts procarcinogens into active carcinogens – pretty impressive benefits to be gained from a daily helping of humble Brussels sprouts.
3. Vitamin C
Vitamin C is known for many things, like immune system support and wound healing. But did you know this essential nutrient also fights cancer? Studies show that vitamin C can reduce inflammation, fight free radicals and, in the right dose, it can even kill off cancer cells.
4. Quercetin
Quercetin is found in abundance in apples, grapes, red onions, and tomatoes. Studies show that a diet high in this plant nutrient can reduce cancer risk by up to 50 percent. This antioxidant nutrient can help protect cells and DNA from the damage caused by free radicals. Studies have shown that quercetin stops cancer in its tracks, killing off cancer cells before they have the chance to spread.
5. Vitamin D
Vitamin D is an essential nutrient known for its benefits for bone health and depression, but it helps prevent cancer, too. Studies have shown that it reduces cancer risk across the board, but it is especially beneficial for warding off prostate, colorectal and liver cancers.
6. Curcumin
Curcumin is the active compound found in turmeric. Study after study has shown that this powerhouse of a nutrient can fight cancer at almost every turn. Earlier this year, it was revealed that someone cured their stage-3 myeloma (bone cancer) with turmeric and nothing else -- a feat so great it was published in the British Medical Journal. Even proponents of the corrupt cancer industry couldn't ignore that.
7. Proanthocyanidins
Found in grape seed extract, proanthocyanidins are known to cut the risk of cancer by a substantial margin -- and more importantly, these potent nutrients are capable of slowing cancer growth and killing off cancer cells. Proanthocyanidins have also been shown to help prevent liver damage caused by chemotherapy.
8. Oleocanthal
We all know olive oil is good for us -- but just how good is it? Oleocanthal is a plant nutrient found in olive oil that has the power to rupture cancer cell walls, leaving them to be destroyed by their own enzymes.
There are many other remarkable foods with an array of health benefits that can help keep cancer at bay. Learn more at Food.news.
Sources for this article include: