    Everyone is familiar with the old adage “you are what you eat” and now more than ever, the importance of a quality diet and proper food choices are coming into the forefront of America’s focus. Between the American Cancer Society and the American Institute for Cancer Research, it is estimated that over 30 percent of cancers can be traced back to entirely preventable measures. Consuming a healthy diet and maintaining a healthy weight are both major factors in helping prevent cancer.
    The idea that particular foods have a modifying effect on cancer risk is gaining more support from research. More fiber, as well as fruit, vegetables and fish in one’s diet may cut the risk for a variety of cancers. Vegetarianism has been suggested to lower cancer risk overall, in addition to female-specific cancers.
    It seems that every other week, a new study is published about newly discovered benefits of various fruits, vegetables, vitamins, and more. The three major preventative groups of food are as follows:

Carotenoids
- Carrots
- Sweet potatoes
- Spinach
- Kale
- Papaya
- Tomatoes
Cruciferous Vegetables
- Cauliflower
- Cabbage
- Cress
- Bok Choy
- Broccoli
Antioxidant-Rich
- Blueberries
- Blackberries
- Green Tea
- Garlic

Eating foods in as close to their natural, original state (as “whole foods”) is the most beneficial overall, and allows for the greatest intake of the phytonutrients that provide this preventative benefit. The research surrounding diet and cancer prevention suggests that overall a diet based on whole grains, a wide variety of vegetables and fruits, tea, nuts and seeds offers the greatest power to prevent cancer.
No longer is cancer viewed entirely as a disorder beyond our control, but as a force we have the power to take a stand against. The best defense against cancer is a good offense, and that comes through a healthy lifestyle and proactive measures for the benefit of your health and well-being. Through education and promotion of healthy habits, the dream of cancer’s extinction comes closer towards our reach.

Read the entire article here: Let Food Be Your Medicin: Diet and Cancer Prevention