Cancer Fighters in Plant Foods and Immune-Boosting Foods - How Foods Fight Cancer

Cancer Fighters in Plant Foods and Immune-Boosting Foods - How Foods Fight Cancer

Antioxidants are powerful cancer fighters mainly found in vegetables and
fruits. They assist in halting free radical damage, which can otherwise lead
to cancer development. We will look in some detail at which vegetables
and fruits are high in which protective compounds. The key message is
to be generous with a variety of vegetables and fruits as you plan your
menu. Studies have amply demonstrated the ability of diets rich in vegetables
and fruits to reduce the likelihood that cancer will develop in the first
place. Studies have also suggested that cancer survivors who consume more
vegetables and fruits do indeed live longer, cancer-free lives.
We will also explore the immune system’s role in fighting cancer.
Beta-carotene, vitamin C, and zinc can help the immune system
recognize and destroy cancer cells. In contrast, foods rich in fat and cholesterol
can interfere with immunity. Studies have shown that vegetarians have
approximately double the natural killer cell activity (natural killer cells
engulf and destroy cancer cells) compared to nonvegetarians.