A wholesome diet is a significant factor that can curb the onset of various chronic diseases such as cardiac conditions, diabetes, and even cancer. Several foods, especially colorful fruits and vegetables, can prevent the development of cancer cells in the body. Likewise, avoiding the intake of foods that are processed, fatty, refined, or overcooked is important too as they increase the risk of cancer. In this article, we’ll list down the best anti-cancer foods that should be regularly included in one’s everyday diet.

1. Broccoli

This cruciferous vegetable contains a plant compound known as sulforaphane that has powerful anti-cancer properties. A test-tube study demonstrated that this compound found in broccoli shrunk the size and lowered the number of breast cancer cells by 75%. Likewise, an animal study discovered that sulforaphane destroyed prostate cancer cells and cut down the tumor by nearly 50%.

2. Berries

Rich in anthocyanins, berries are linked with reduced risk of cancer in many studies. In one particular research, 25 people with colorectal cancer were treated for seven days with bilberry extract that helped decrease the cancer growth by 7%. In an animal study, experts concluded that giving rats freeze-dried raspberries dropped the incidence of esophageal tumor by 54% and the number of tumors by nearly 62%.

3. Olive oil

A staple in Mediterranean cuisine, olive oil comes with multiple health benefits. An analysis of several studies showed that people consuming olive oil have a diminished risk of acquiring cancer of the digestive system and breasts. Not only for cooking meals but olive oil can also be drizzled over salads or used in marinades.

4. Citrus fruits

Citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruits are said to have reduced the risk of cancer. One study determined that participants who consumed a high amount of citrus fruits have a decreased chance of developing cancers of the upper respiratory and digestive tracts. Likewise, reviews of multiple studies suggest that citrus fruits lower the risk of pancreatic and stomach cancer.

5. Turmeric

This spice contains an active ingredient known as curcumin that boasts of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer effects. A study showed that daily consumption of turmeric reduced the number of lesions in the colon that could have probably turned cancerous. In a test-tube study, curcumin reduced the spread of colon cancer cells by inhibiting an enzyme related to cancer growth. Similarly, another test-tube research concluded that curcumin helped eliminate cancer cells in the neck and head.

6. Carrots

Many research projects have deduced that carrots can lower the risk of certain forms of cancer. For instance, a review of multiple studies shows that carrots reduce the chances of stomach cancer by almost 26%. Another study found that regular intake of carrot can lower the risk of prostate cancer. Similarly, a study showed that people who didn’t eat carrots were three times more likely to develop lung cancer.

The research involved in anti-cancer foods does a lot to enlighten us about the importance of diet to lead a healthy lifestyle. However, it is important to remember that animal, test-tube, and observational studies mentioned above might provide limited results and do not directly provide evidence on how such foods can benefit humans.