Colon cancer can be life-threatening, but you may be able to sidestep this aggressive disease by taking a few precautionary steps. If you’re in a high-risk group, learn how to gain the upper hand and increase your chances of preventing colon cancer.
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure for certain. Many would argue that is especially so in regard to cancer. Taking action to alter lifestyle concerns that may increase risks has been shown to make a difference. Eating right happens to be one of the steps many recommended for helping people prevent cancer. One classification of vegetables in particular gets a lot of attention on that front. Nutrient-packed cruciferous vegetables are considered by many to be a cancer-fighting superfood. But, are they really?
The simple truth is the jury remains out on the cancer-fighting abilities of cruciferous vegetables. What is known is that these foods do pack a powerful punch when it comes to compounds and nutrients the body needs to be healthy. These vegetables are dense with antioxidants and are also a strong source of fiber. The classification includes such foods as cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, collard greens, arugula and Bok choy.
As for scientific proof that cruciferous vegetables are cancer fighters, a number of conflicting studies exist. Some evidence points to their benefits in regard to prostate, colorectal, lung and breast cancer. Other studies found no direct association between eating these foods and lower risks.
While it’s true there is no settled science on the link between cruciferous veggies and lowered cancer risks, these vegetables remain powerful additions to any diet. They are rich in carotenoids, vitamins C, E and K. They also are known to contain folate and plenty of minerals the body needs to run efficiently.
The bottom line, researchers say, is that these vegetables are simply a part of a healthy diet. That, in and of itself, can help keep cancer and a host of other illnesses at bay. Will eating lots of broccoli stop breast or prostate cancer? Maybe yes or maybe no, researchers say. But, will the move help support a healthy body? The answer is a big yes, especially when cruciferous veggies are combined with other healthy foods and smart lifestyle choices.
You Might Also Enjoy...
Colon cancer can be life-threatening, but you may be able to sidestep this aggressive disease by taking a few precautionary steps. If you’re in a high-risk group, learn how to gain the upper hand and increase your chances of preventing colon cancer.
When you catch a cold, your immune system attacks the virus that caused it. But when you have cancer, it’s not so easy. Find out how your immune system can benefit from immunotherapy and kick cancer to the curb.
Chemotherapy can be a life-saving treatment, but it also has a few side effects you may not know about, including nerve pain. Here’s how cancer drugs affect your nerves and what you can do about it.
Breast cancer affects more women in the United States than any other type of cancer except for skin cancer, according to the American Society of Clinical Oncology. Can you really lower your risk? Yes.
Struggles to get to the clinic? Trying to reduce your exposure to COVID-19, as well as other contagious illnesses, and still need to see your doctor? Telehealth is safe and easy — receive quality care from anywhere.
Leading cancer center network, Choice Cancer Care has launched its Virtual Oncology Clinic in partnership with ORA Oncology...