Innumerable studies are being conducted on finding ways to treat cancer. However, despite the availability of ample amount of scientific research that has deciphered the underlying mechanisms for the formation of cancerous cells, the medical community has not yet succeeded in finding a cure for cancer. Owing to the severity posed by the fast pace, at which cancerous growth spreads and the suppression of the immune system by cancerous cells, it is extremely difficult for the body to eradicate and hinder the progression of malignant tumors. Hence, adapting the following ways of preventing the inactivation of tumor suppresser genes like p53 and the subsequent development of cancerous cells can help you cope with the symptoms and long term complications of this debilitating condition.
Dietary tips to prevent the onset of cancer
Researchers have established the role of nutritious foods in the reduction of the risk of developing cancer, some of which have been mentioned below.
1. Vitamin D
Most commonly known as sunshine vitamin, vitamin D is considered as one of the most potent vitamins for suppressing the growth of cancerous cells. It is known for its ability to enhance the activity and expression of the tumor suppressor gene, p53 that in turn, inhibits the activity of oncogenes and protects the body from the invasion of cancerous cells. Hence, incorporation of foods enriched with vitamin D like dairy products, fish, oranges, etc., and sufficient exposure to sunlight has been recommended to obtain a daily intake of 800 IU of vitamin D for people below the age of 60 and 1000 IU for those above the age of 60 years for reducing the risk of developing any type of cancer.
2. Olive oil
Health benefits of olive oil are not only limited to preventing heart diseases, but has been proven by researchers to prevent the onset of breast cancer, colon cancer and ovarian cancer. Monosaturated fatty acids found in olive oil possess anti-carcinogenic properties, thus making it an ideal food for reducing the risk of cancer.
3. Vitamin B9 or folic acid
High levels of folic acid found in green leafy vegetables, lentils and citrus fruits have been linked with lower incidence of colorectal cancer. In fact, a daily intake of 800 milligrams of folic acid has been shown to reduce the rate of colon cancer by 20 – 40 %.
4. Green tea
Powerful anti-oxidants known as polyphenols found in green tea play a major role in eradicating harmful free radicals that destroy the body’s cells and promote their conversion to cancerous cells. Hence, regular consumption of green tea helps to eliminate free radicals as a waste product from the body and aid in reducing the risk of cancer.
Hence, the old saying “Prevention is better than cure”, holds true for keeping the symptoms and consequences of cancer at bay. Furthermore, most of the medical treatments available for alleviating the symptoms of cancer are associated with several unpleasant side effects, which can sometimes be more dreadful and detrimental than the disease itself. Hence, visiting a cancer center can help you obtain deeper insights into the role of dietary supplements in helping you prevent the onset of cancer.
