7 Super Foods to lower cervical cancer risk
Cervical cancer risk is increased by the day. It ranks in the list of the most common cancers in women. With its incidence rate second only to breast cancer, cervical cancer is a big challenge! But can superfoods really prevent it?
While a permanent cure is yet to come, there is some prevention that could help. One such powerful thing that can prevent most cases of diseases is the plate. Yes, the things on your plate have the potential of preventing many diseases, including cancer.
How can food lower the risk of cervical cancer?
One of the biggest risk factors for cervical cancer is HPV infections. Vaccination and safe sex definitely offer some shield against HPV infection. However, there are also certain foods that can help prevent the progression of HPV.
Research says that fruits and vegetables act as protective agents against the HPV virus. Vitamins and antioxidants available in these foods strengthen the immune system. This protects the body against attacks of the virus.
Researches say “fruit and vegetable consumption reduces the risk of cervical cancer”. Food rich in vitamins A, C, and E, folates, carotenoids, and minerals is very helpful. Orange and yellow-colored fruits and veggies contain nutrients that help prevent cancer.
7 Super Foods to lower cervical cancer risk
1. Carrots
Carrots are packed with cancer-fighting nutrients. Carrots contain beta-carotene and carotenoids. Beta carotene prevents toxin damage and slows the growth of cancer cells. Carrots also contain falcarinol, a natural pesticide. These nutrients help in recovering the damage done by carcinogens.
Carrots contain vitamins and phytochemicals. It might guard against cancers of the mouth, esophagus, and stomach. Carrots offer protection against cervical cancer. It is a rich supply antioxidant that could battle HPV.
2. Avocados
Avocados are rich sources of folate. Folate is a form of vitamin B. This green fruit is also packed with healthy fats. Avocados are blessed with antioxidant properties that help attack free radicals.
It restricts cervical cancer development. Avocado is also helpful in reducing the risk of cervical cancer in people with HPV.
3. Pumpkin and Pumpkin seeds
Pumpkins are another rich source of carotenoids. Pumpkin seeds are abundant sources of protein, zinc, iron, vitamins A, B, C, and calcium. Zinc constrains cancer cell growth and protects immune cells from free radicals. All these nutrients build a great shield against cervical cancer.
4. Brocolli
Broccoli is great cancer-fighting food. It contains many phytochemicals and sulforaphane. It boosts protective enzymes and flushes out cancer-causing toxins. Other cruciferous vegetables like cabbage, kale, and cauliflower are also helpful.
5. Tomato
Tomato is a great cancer-fighting superfood. Tomato is packed with lycopene that promotes cervical health. Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant that lowers the risk of several cancers. Tomato is also a great source of vitamins A, C, and E. These vitamins fight off free radicals.
All these properties of tomato help in preventing cervical cancer. Tomatoes also lower the risk of breast, lung and stomach cancer. Other fruits that contain lycopene include watermelon and pink grapefruit.
6. Dark leafy greens
Dark leafy veggies are rich in folate which is great for the cervix. Foods like spinach, kale, and broccoli are some of the most nutritious foods. It is rich in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals.
Dark leafy greens are very beneficial in reducing the risks of cervical and colorectal cancer. It helps in maintaining lean body weight. It also reduces the chances of heart disease and diabetes.
7. Curcumin
Curcumin is a phytochemical present in turmeric. Curcumin is capable of fighting most types of cancer. Curcumin can also help fight cervical cancer. It protects the body from the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) which is the main cause of uterine and cervical cancer.
Curcumin is also effective in arresting the development of cervical cancer. It inactivates the HPV and inhibits the growth of cervical cancer.
Tips to Maintain a healthy diet
- Add a variety of fruits and veggies.
- Eat Whole grains
- Have plant-based proteins
- Restrict red meat
- Avoid processed meat
- Limit salt
- Limit alcohol
- Avoid sugary beverages
Tips to prevent cervical cancer
- Practice protected sex.
- Avoid having multiple partners.
- Educate children to avoid early sex.
- Get Vaccinated.
- Urinate and wash off after intercourse.
- Quit smoking
- Go for routine Pap Tests.
