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Food rich in beta carotene with text Beta Carotene. Various fruits and vegetables as natural sources of beta carotene. It is an organic red-orange pigment abundant in plants.
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Dietary carotenoids* have been linked to a lower risk of developing lung cancer, however, more research needs to be done to determine the effect of consuming beta-carotene through food on cancer prevention [18]. Carrots, sweet potatoes, and dark leafy greens like kale and spinach are excellent sources of beta-carotene.
*Note: Supplemental beta-carotene has not shown the same effect. In fact, it may increase cancer risk [18]. It’s always best to get your beta-carotene from foods.
8. Fatty Fish
Fresh raw salmon fish steaks on white kitchen background
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There is some research to suggest that including a few servings of fatty fish, such as albacore tuna, salmon, Atlantic herring, mussels, anchovies, and sardines every week can reduce your risk for developing certain cancers. This is likely because of their high vitamin D and Omega-3 fatty acid content, both of which are believed to reduce the risk of disease, including cancer [19,20].
Honorable Mentions
Assorted of berries on red plate. Raspberry, blackberry, and blueberry on black background
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This is by no means a definitive list of the best foods to prevent cancer, and there are many other anti cancer foods that also contain important nutrients that reduce your risk of disease. Other cancer-fighting foods include berries and citrus fruits, lentils, legumes and eggs, whole grains like brown rice and oatmeal, olive oil, and green or white tea [2].
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As previously mentioned, what you don’t eat can be just as important in terms of cancer prevention, and limiting your intake of processed meats, fried foods, refined carbohydrates, and sugar can also reduce your risk for disease. Additionally, other lifestyle factors, such as smoking, heavy alcohol consumption, a lack of physical activity, and chronic stress can also increase your risk for cancer [2].
Do Your Best to Decrease Your Risk
Young woman eating healthy food sitting in the beautiful interior with green flowers on the background
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Although there is nothing you can do to bring your risk of developing cancer to an absolute zero, eating a healthy, plant-focused diet that is low in processed foods, getting plenty of exercises, drinking water, and avoiding risky behaviors like smoking or excessive drinking can reduce your risk significantly. This type of lifestyle will also help you to feel better overall, and you will have more energy to engage in the activities you enjoy. We may not be able to prevent cancer entirely, but we can create an internal environment that promotes health and vitality.
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Read More: Doctors Kept Dismissing My Back Pain Until I Was Finally Diagnosed With Terminal Cancer
Disclaimer: This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and is for information only. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about your medical condition and/or current medication. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking advice or treatment because of something you have read here.
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