We all are on the lookout for foods that boost immunity, and everything that calls itself an immunity booster is running off the shelves at the snap of a finger. Rightly so, because we have become more health-conscious than ever, or at least, the deadly pandemic has molded us this way.
However, COVID-19 is not the only disease that is snatching away the lives of hundreds of thousands of people, there is cancer, too. The mortality of which is much higher than COVID. According to the World Health Organization, cancer accounted for nearly 10 million deaths in 2020 itself.
The facts are horrifying and alarming, and you must be left wondering why such a deadly disease is not our prime concern. The silver lining is that there are newer treatments, and cancer care is advancing, which is helping in saving a number of lives, too. However, prevention remains the key, and these five foods can help prevent breast cancer.
Whole Grains
Whole grains include fiber-rich bran, nutrient-packed germ, and the starchy endosperm. Because refined grains do not contain the bran and germ, whole grains provide more nutrients, fiber and health-promoting phytochemicals. There are many studies that say that women who consume whole grains like oats, quinoa, barley, corn, etc are less likely to have or develop breast cancer.
Eggs
Eggs have omega 3 acids which is the best way for girls to protect themselves against developing breast cancer later in life. Studies have found that for women who reported eating six eggs per week, the risk of developing breast cancer was 44% lower than those who are two or fewer eggs per week.
Tumeric
The curcumin in turmeric has a variety of health benefits, including that of fighting cancer cells. Some studies have found it might work against lung, breast, prostate, and colon cancers. While much of the research on curcumin and cancer has been done in the lab, there are some promising results in humans. One individual even experienced a brief, but significant, tumor regression.
Turmeric may also protect healthy cells from damage caused by radiation therapy. They found that 6 g of oral curcumin taken daily during radiotherapy reduced the severity of radiation dermatitis.
Sunflower Seeds
Sunflower seeds have countless benefits. Sunflower seeds contain high amounts of phenolic compounds that also act as antioxidants that reduce oxidative stress in the body and the risk of many chronic diseases. Several studies have found an association between the food content of phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity in the body, while other studies have not found the same relationship.
Sunflower seeds also have anti-inflammatory effects. Sunflower seeds are a rich source of plant sterol, which is a protective factor against breast cancer. Which has been found to have effects in reducing the size and spread of cancerous tumors inside the body. A study found that consuming sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds reduced the risk of breast cancer in postmenopausal women compared to women who did not eat these seeds.
Black Til
Black Til, also known as black sesame seeds, is one of the oldest condiments known to man. They are highly valued for their oil. According to medical experts, the sesamin found in sesame seeds is found to protect the liver against the damage caused by free radicals in the body. Also, the seeds are rich in fiber, lignans (cell reinforcements), and phytosterol (phytochemicals), which can protect you against the development of colon cancer. These anti-cancer properties can even prevent breast cancer cells from growing.
Cancer Concerns
If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with cancer, schedule a consultation with Dr. Michael Hall, Radiation Oncologists to learn more about your options. Have questions? Talk to Dr. Hall or call (561) 622-6111 to find out more information.