Carrots contain several essential nutrients, including vitamin K, vitamin A , and antioxidants. Carrots also contain high amounts of beta-carotene , which is responsible for the distinct orange color.

Research from a Danish cohort study examined the intake of carrots on certain cancer development in 55, participants. They also suggested raw carrots may protect against:. A screening trial also associated moderate carrot consumption with a lower risk of colorectal cancer.

Fatty fish, including salmon , mackerel, and anchovies, are rich in essential nutrients, such as B vitamins , potassium , and omega-3 fatty acids. A meta-analysis suggested that omega-3 fatty acids from fish had a protective effect against breast cancer in Asian patients.

A meta-analysis also associates fish consumption with a lower risk of developing colorectal cancer. However, a review and meta-analysis states that some studies into cancer risk and fish oil supplementation provide weak associations, suggesting further research may be necessary.

What are the best fish to eat for health? According to the American Institute for Cancer Research , all nuts appear to have cancer-preventing properties, but scientists have studied walnuts more than other types.

Walnuts contain a substance called pedunculagin, which the body metabolizes into urolithins. Urolithins are compounds that bind to estrogen receptors and may play a role in preventing breast cancer. In a trial , females with breast cancer ate walnuts for 2 weeks between the date of their biopsy and the day of surgery.

Researchers tested tumor tissue samples removed during surgery and compared them with the original biopsy results. They found signs that genetic changes had taken place, which could suggest the suppression of cancerous cell growth.

What other health benefits do walnuts have? Legumes , such as beans , peas , and lentils , are high in fiber, which may help lower the risk of some types of cancer. For example, one study examined the relationship between the intake of bean fiber and the risk of breast cancer.

What other high fiber foods are there? Resveratrol , an antioxidant in red grape skins, has shown promise as a tool for fighting cancer. Some scientists believe that, with further research, it could become part of cancer therapy.

As well as resveratrol, grapes and grape seeds also contain the following nutrients, which have antioxidant and potentially cancer-fighting properties:.

What is grape seed extract? Some site-specific cancers that whole grains may reduce the risk of include:. In contrast to whole grains, research associated high consumption of refined grains with a higher risk of gastric and colon cancer.

What are the benefits of eating whole grains? Dark chocolate contains polyphenols, flavonoids, and antioxidants, which, according to a review , may have a preventive effect against cancer. What are the health benefits of eating dark chocolate?

Specific types of cancer it may help to prevent include the following:. A study on olive oil consumption among 1, adults in Spain suggests that two or more tablespoons of olive oil per day offers the maximum benefits, lowering the risk of cardiovascular, all-cause, and cancer mortality.

Supplements can also provide nutrients and antioxidants that may help prevent cancer by reducing oxidative stress, such as vitamin C, vitamin D , and vitamin E. Most of the plant-based compounds in this article, such as phloretin, anthocyanin, and sulforaphane, come in pill form.

Always speak with a healthcare professional before starting a new medication or supplement regimen. There is no single food that can fight cancer. However, consuming certain foods can provide the body with the nutrients it needs to help reduce the risk of cancer.

These include apples, berries, cruciferous vegetables, carrots, fatty fish, and more. According to Cancer Research UK , some early studies, mostly in animals, have suggested that some cancer cells do not use ketones for energy.

This would mean that consuming a diet that is low in carbohydrates and high in fat can help to starve cancer cells by lowering glucose levels. However, more research into this is necessary. It is best to contact a doctor for advice before making any significant dietary changes.

In Japan and China, medicinal mushrooms have been approved for the treatment of cancer alongside standard therapies. There are more than types of mushrooms for the treatment of cancer in Asia. Examples include reishi, turkey tail, shiitake, and maitake mushrooms. However, more research is necessary, and the Food and Drug Administration FDA has not yet approved any medicinal mushrooms for the treatment of cancer in the United States.

Research into preventing cancer through diet is still in the early stages and requires further testing. However, it is important to remember that eating a balanced diet containing fresh fruits, vegetables, and good fats will benefit overall health.

Many people worry that drinking coffee may cause cancer. This is because roasted coffee beans contain acrylamide. Learn more here. Cancer is the uncontrolled development of cells. It can affect various parts of the body and lead to tumors, damage to the immune system, and other….

There are many benefits to fasting. It may even play a role in the prevention and treatment of cancer. There are also some potential risks to be aware…. Lenvima, which treats some types of cancer, can cause side effects.

In studies, bromelain has been found to have natural anti-cancer effects, including promoting apoptotic cell death and preventing tumor growth. Studies have linked bromelain to increased protection against breast and lung cancer, and the journal Anticancer Drugs published results from a clinical trial that suggested it affects malignant peritoneal mesothelioma — a rare cancer caused by asbestos exposure.

Along with easy-to-use black pepper, turmeric absorption is enhanced and better able to fight inflammation. You can also take curcumin supplements; aim for 1, milligrams daily. Meanwhile, the seeds of the cilantro plant, called coriander, possess anti-inflammatory properties that may play a role in disease and even cancer.

Ashwagandha benefits include its ability to inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells. Perhaps most striking is the Chinese root spice galangal , suggested by a growing body of scientific research, is its ability to fight and potentially prevent a broad number of cancers and tumors.

See our list of healing herbs and spices. Detoxifying with rich sources of selenium , zinc and B vitamins helps purify blood; produce the bile needed to digest fats; balance hormones naturally; and store essential vitamins, minerals and iron. These mineral-rich foods can help counteract the effects of alcohol, prescription drugs, hormone disruptions, high triglyceride levels, low potassium, obesity and viral infections.

One of the easiest ways to consume more probiotics is in their most natural state, which includes raw milk products such as cheese, kefir and yogurt. Raw and cultured are key here, since fermentation produces probiotics but high heat processing used to pasteurize dairy can damage many of the vital nutrients, including the enzymes, proteins and probiotics.

Most dairy today is loaded with hormones, antibiotics, pain killers and pesticide residue so buying organic is also important. Aim for six ounces of cultured dairy daily probiotic yogurt , cottage cheese, goat milk kefir or amasai. Cottage cheese, which is rich in sulfur protein and saturated fats, was found to be especially beneficial as part of the Budwig diet for cancer protocol.

You can also increase your probiotic food intake without dairy by consuming cultured vegetables like kimchi , sauerkraut, coconut kefir, kombucha or natto.

Cultured dairy is also a great source of calcium. Calcium , particularly when combined with vitamin D3 form, may reduce the incidence of cancer. Calcium seems to be especially beneficial for preventing cancer and rectal cancers.

Some studies have also found that it helps reduce breast cancer and ovarian cancer risk. Sunlight exposure and marine oils such as cod liver oil or krill oil are great sources of vitamin D that help with calcium absorption.

Calcium should ideally be obtained from foods like organic dairy products. Chia seeds and flaxseeds are two of the most nutrient-dense seeds in the world. They provide fiber, omega-3 fatty acids and a range of important minerals.

Chia is rich in alpha-linolenic acid ALA , a type of omega-3 fatty acid that gives it the potential to act as a cancer-fighting food. One in-vitro study published in the Journal of Molecular Biochemistry found that ALA helped limit the growth of both breast and cervical cancer cells.

Researchers also found that it caused cell death of the cancer cells without harming the normal healthy cells in the body. Meanwhile, a study published in the Journal of Clinical Cancer Research discovered that consuming flaxseeds may defend against breast cancer by decreasing tumor growth.

In addition, hemp seeds , sesame seeds, pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds are also beneficial and full of healthy fatty acids. Their health benefits and are best sprouted and can be used easily in smoothies, baked goods and with yogurt. Aim for two tablespoons daily. Many studies find a link between nut consumption and cancer prevention , including a reduced risk for colon, prostate and breast cancers.

Did you know that your brain and nervous system control the function of your entire body and that about 60 percent of your nervous system is made up of fatty acids? The problem is that many of the conventional processed fats and oils widely consumed today are hydrogenated oils that are capable of destroying the membranes of our cells, leading to diseased cells and toxicity.

Refined and rancid fats create problems throughout your entire body, leading to lower immune function, cell congestion and inflammation that kicks off disease.

Replace refined vegetable oils, hydrogenated oils and trans fats with quality oils, including flaxseed oil , extra virgin olive oil , cod oil and coconut oil. These nourish your gut and promote better immune function, help you reach and maintain a healthy weight, plus flaxseed and cod liver oil contain essential omega-3 fatty acids that can help energize your cells.

Olive oil contains phytonutrients that seem to reduce inflammation in the body. It may reduce the risk of breast and colorectal cancers.

Nutritious mushrooms vary in terms of their benefits, taste and appearance since hundreds of mushroom species are in existence today, but all are known to be immune-enhancers and many have been used to fight cancer for centuries.

Reishi , cordyceps and maitake in particular can improve immune function, fight tumor growth and help with cell regeneration. For example, studies have turned up promising results on the link between the reishi mushroom and cancer prevention.

It has been successfully used to help fight cancer of the breasts, ovaries, prostate, liver and lungs in in-vitro studies, sometimes in combination with other treatments.

Research in cancer patients suggests that reishi has antiproliferative and chemopreventive effects. It helps alleviate side effects of chemotherapy, like low immunity and nausea, and potentially enhances the efficacy of radiotherapy.

Metastasis is the most deadly aspect of cancer and results from several connected processes including cell proliferation, angiogenesis, cell adhesion, migration and invasion into the surrounding tissue.

Of the few cancer-fighting drinks , green tea is at the top. Green tea contains major polyphenolic compounds, including epigallocatechingallate , which has been shown to inhibit tumor invasion and angiogenesis, which are essential for tumor growth and metastasis.

Teas derived from the leaves of the plant Camellia sinensis are commonly consumed as beverages around the world, including green, black or oolong tea. While all traditional teas seem to be beneficial, the most significant effects on human health have been attributed to green tea, including matcha green tea.

It contains the highest percentage of polyphenolic compounds, catechin, gallocatechin and EGCG. The antioxidant EGCG appears to be the most potent of all the catechins, and its anticancer effects have activity about 25— times more effective than that of vitamins C and E.

EGCG has been reported to be linked to the modulation of multiple signaling pathways, finally resulting in the downregulation of expression of proteins involved in the invasiveness of cancer cells. According to a study conducted by researchers at the Richerche Institute of Pharmacology, higher fish consumption is another favorable diet indicator of better immune function.

The study, which investigated the cancer-fighting effects of the Mediterranean diet, found that people who reported eating less fish and more frequent red meat showed several common neoplasms in their blood that suggested higher susceptibility.

Wild and especially small fish, including salmon , mackerel and sardines are anti-inflammatory omega-3 foods that are correlated with better brain, hormonal and nervous system health. Omega-3 fatty acids exert anti-inflammatory effects, and therefore recent studies have connected them to cancer prevention and natural enhancement of antitumor therapies.

Evidence suggests a role for omega-3 fatty acid supplementation in cancer prevention and reducing symptoms of treatments like chemotherapy. People who consume more long-chain omega-3s DHA and EPA seem to have a reduced risk of colorectal cancer.

After a large number of lab studies found that omega-3 fatty acids may be effective in slowing or reversing the growth of hormonal cancers, namely prostate cancer and breast cancer cells, animal and human epidemiological studies have been conducted to see whether this effect occurred in real-life scenarios.

However, additional information on this topic is still warranted. The quality of your diet is undoubtably linked to your overall health and ability to prevent cancer. However other factors are also important for cancer-prevention, such as exercising, avoiding medication and toxin exposure, not smoking or consuming too much alcohol, sleeping well and controlling stress.

Start by making one or two changes at a time to your diet, removing foods that you consume a lot of but that are known to increase cancer risk.

Fermented foods like yogurt, kimchi, miso, and sauerkraut contain probiotics and other nutrients that may safeguard against breast cancer. A literature review of 27 studies linked the consumption of dairy products, including fermented dairy products like yogurt, to a reduced risk of breast cancer in both Western and Asian populations.

Test-tube studies and animal research suggest that this protective effect is related to the immune-enhancing effects of certain probiotics. Beans are loaded with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Specifically, their high fiber content may protect against breast cancer.

Herbs and spices contain plant compounds that may help protect against breast cancer. These include vitamins, fatty acids, and polyphenol antioxidants. For example, oregano boasts the antioxidants carvacrol and rosmarinic acid.

A test-tube study found that these antioxidants exhibit significant anticancer effects against aggressive breast cancer cell lines.

Curcumin, the main active compound in turmeric, has also demonstrated significant anticancer properties, as has apigenin , a flavonoid concentrated in parsley. Whole grains like wheat, brown rice, barley, quinoa, and rye are rich in important nutrients, including fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

In fact, one study found that consuming more than seven servings of whole grains each week was linked to a significantly lower risk of the development of breast cancer in women. Another study involving 10, middle-aged women showed that eating more high quality carbohydrates, such as whole grains, was associated with a decreased risk of developing breast cancer over a year period.

Furthermore, other research suggests that adding whole grains to your diet could also protect against several other types of cancer, including pancreatic, colorectal, stomach, and esophageal cancers.

Walnuts have many benefits and are a great source of heart-healthy fats, including alpha-linolenic acid. Interestingly, some research suggests that adding walnuts and other types of nuts to your diet could even help protect against breast cancer. Another small study looked at the effect of walnuts on women with breast cancer.

The researchers found that consuming 2 ounces 57 grams of walnuts each day for 2—3 weeks led to significant changes in levels of specific genes that control the growth and spread of breast cancer cells.

Many people also wonder whether soy products — such as tofu, soy milk, and edamame — can affect their risk of breast cancer. Research is mixed. According to a segment of test-tube and animal studies , consuming high amounts of isoflavones, a compound found in soy, could increase the risk of breast cancer development.

Isoflavones mimic the effects of estrogen. However, studies in humans have actually found that increased soy intake is linked to a lower risk of developing breast cancer.

However, many other lifestyle choices may affect your cancer risk too. For example, engaging in regular exercise, getting enough rest, and avoiding smoking offer significant protection against breast cancer. Maintaining a moderate body weight may also help reduce your risk.

Furthermore, some research suggests that certain skin care products may increase breast cancer risk. For example, many moisturizers, cosmetics, and hair products contain parabens , a type of chemical that could play a role in the development of breast cancer.

Parabens are considered endocrine disruptors, which means they may negatively affect your hormones. Exposure to pesticides, as well as endocrine disruptors such as Bisphenol A BPA that are found in materials like plastic, may raise breast cancer risk too.

Thus, opting for natural skin care, gardening, and cleaning products may decrease your breast cancer risk. Following a nutritious diet rich in foods like leafy greens, citrus fruits, and fatty fish may help reduce breast cancer risk.

It may be equally important to limit or avoid items like alcohol, highly processed meats, and sugary foods and beverages. Keep in mind that regular medical appointments and breast cancer screenings are critical for early detection and diagnosis. Speak with a healthcare professional if you have questions about your breast cancer risk or the screening process.

Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. VIEW ALL HISTORY. This article is based on scientific evidence, written by experts and fact checked by experts. Our team of licensed nutritionists and dietitians strive to be objective, unbiased, honest and to present both sides of the argument.

This article contains scientific references. The numbers in the parentheses 1, 2, 3 are clickable links to peer-reviewed scientific papers. Parents who go through cancer treatment face additional challenges, from managing children's emotions to guilt over not being the parent they imagined….

It can be hard but necessary for independent people to accept help after a breast cancer diagnosis. Here's how a successful editor learned to rely on…. A Quiz for Teens Are You a Workaholic? How Well Do You Sleep? Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect.

Nutrition Evidence Based What Foods Help Prevent Breast Cancer or Reduce Your Risk? Medically reviewed by Imashi Fernando, MS, RDN, CDCES — By Jillian Kubala, MS, RD and Rachael Ajmera, MS, RD — Updated on December 19, Foods to eat What to avoid Lifestyle tips Takeaway Certain fruits and vegetables, fatty fish, fermented foods, beans, herbs and spices, whole grains, and walnuts can help reduce your risk of breast cancer.

Foods that may lower breast cancer risk. Foods and beverages to limit or avoid. Other lifestyle considerations. The bottom line. How we reviewed this article: Sources. Healthline has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical associations.

We avoid using tertiary references. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy. Dec 19, Written By Jillian Kubala MS, RD, Rachael Ajmera, MS, RD.

Studies have linked bromelain to increased protection against breast and lung cancer, and the journal Anticancer Drugs published results from a clinical trial that suggested it affects malignant peritoneal mesothelioma — a rare cancer caused by asbestos exposure.

Along with easy-to-use black pepper, turmeric absorption is enhanced and better able to fight inflammation. You can also take curcumin supplements; aim for 1, milligrams daily. Meanwhile, the seeds of the cilantro plant, called coriander, possess anti-inflammatory properties that may play a role in disease and even cancer.

Ashwagandha benefits include its ability to inhibit the proliferation of cancer cells. Perhaps most striking is the Chinese root spice galangal , suggested by a growing body of scientific research, is its ability to fight and potentially prevent a broad number of cancers and tumors.

See our list of healing herbs and spices. Detoxifying with rich sources of selenium , zinc and B vitamins helps purify blood; produce the bile needed to digest fats; balance hormones naturally; and store essential vitamins, minerals and iron. These mineral-rich foods can help counteract the effects of alcohol, prescription drugs, hormone disruptions, high triglyceride levels, low potassium, obesity and viral infections.

One of the easiest ways to consume more probiotics is in their most natural state, which includes raw milk products such as cheese, kefir and yogurt. Raw and cultured are key here, since fermentation produces probiotics but high heat processing used to pasteurize dairy can damage many of the vital nutrients, including the enzymes, proteins and probiotics.

Most dairy today is loaded with hormones, antibiotics, pain killers and pesticide residue so buying organic is also important. Aim for six ounces of cultured dairy daily probiotic yogurt , cottage cheese, goat milk kefir or amasai. Cottage cheese, which is rich in sulfur protein and saturated fats, was found to be especially beneficial as part of the Budwig diet for cancer protocol.

You can also increase your probiotic food intake without dairy by consuming cultured vegetables like kimchi , sauerkraut, coconut kefir, kombucha or natto. Cultured dairy is also a great source of calcium. Calcium , particularly when combined with vitamin D3 form, may reduce the incidence of cancer.

Calcium seems to be especially beneficial for preventing cancer and rectal cancers. Some studies have also found that it helps reduce breast cancer and ovarian cancer risk.

Sunlight exposure and marine oils such as cod liver oil or krill oil are great sources of vitamin D that help with calcium absorption. Calcium should ideally be obtained from foods like organic dairy products.

Chia seeds and flaxseeds are two of the most nutrient-dense seeds in the world. They provide fiber, omega-3 fatty acids and a range of important minerals. Chia is rich in alpha-linolenic acid ALA , a type of omega-3 fatty acid that gives it the potential to act as a cancer-fighting food.

One in-vitro study published in the Journal of Molecular Biochemistry found that ALA helped limit the growth of both breast and cervical cancer cells. Researchers also found that it caused cell death of the cancer cells without harming the normal healthy cells in the body.

Meanwhile, a study published in the Journal of Clinical Cancer Research discovered that consuming flaxseeds may defend against breast cancer by decreasing tumor growth. In addition, hemp seeds , sesame seeds, pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds are also beneficial and full of healthy fatty acids.

Their health benefits and are best sprouted and can be used easily in smoothies, baked goods and with yogurt. Aim for two tablespoons daily. Many studies find a link between nut consumption and cancer prevention , including a reduced risk for colon, prostate and breast cancers.

Did you know that your brain and nervous system control the function of your entire body and that about 60 percent of your nervous system is made up of fatty acids? The problem is that many of the conventional processed fats and oils widely consumed today are hydrogenated oils that are capable of destroying the membranes of our cells, leading to diseased cells and toxicity.

Refined and rancid fats create problems throughout your entire body, leading to lower immune function, cell congestion and inflammation that kicks off disease. Replace refined vegetable oils, hydrogenated oils and trans fats with quality oils, including flaxseed oil , extra virgin olive oil , cod oil and coconut oil.

These nourish your gut and promote better immune function, help you reach and maintain a healthy weight, plus flaxseed and cod liver oil contain essential omega-3 fatty acids that can help energize your cells.

Olive oil contains phytonutrients that seem to reduce inflammation in the body. It may reduce the risk of breast and colorectal cancers. Nutritious mushrooms vary in terms of their benefits, taste and appearance since hundreds of mushroom species are in existence today, but all are known to be immune-enhancers and many have been used to fight cancer for centuries.

Reishi , cordyceps and maitake in particular can improve immune function, fight tumor growth and help with cell regeneration. For example, studies have turned up promising results on the link between the reishi mushroom and cancer prevention.

It has been successfully used to help fight cancer of the breasts, ovaries, prostate, liver and lungs in in-vitro studies, sometimes in combination with other treatments.

Research in cancer patients suggests that reishi has antiproliferative and chemopreventive effects. It helps alleviate side effects of chemotherapy, like low immunity and nausea, and potentially enhances the efficacy of radiotherapy. Metastasis is the most deadly aspect of cancer and results from several connected processes including cell proliferation, angiogenesis, cell adhesion, migration and invasion into the surrounding tissue.

Of the few cancer-fighting drinks , green tea is at the top. Green tea contains major polyphenolic compounds, including epigallocatechingallate , which has been shown to inhibit tumor invasion and angiogenesis, which are essential for tumor growth and metastasis. Teas derived from the leaves of the plant Camellia sinensis are commonly consumed as beverages around the world, including green, black or oolong tea.

While all traditional teas seem to be beneficial, the most significant effects on human health have been attributed to green tea, including matcha green tea. It contains the highest percentage of polyphenolic compounds, catechin, gallocatechin and EGCG. The antioxidant EGCG appears to be the most potent of all the catechins, and its anticancer effects have activity about 25— times more effective than that of vitamins C and E.

EGCG has been reported to be linked to the modulation of multiple signaling pathways, finally resulting in the downregulation of expression of proteins involved in the invasiveness of cancer cells. According to a study conducted by researchers at the Richerche Institute of Pharmacology, higher fish consumption is another favorable diet indicator of better immune function.

The study, which investigated the cancer-fighting effects of the Mediterranean diet, found that people who reported eating less fish and more frequent red meat showed several common neoplasms in their blood that suggested higher susceptibility.

Wild and especially small fish, including salmon , mackerel and sardines are anti-inflammatory omega-3 foods that are correlated with better brain, hormonal and nervous system health.

Omega-3 fatty acids exert anti-inflammatory effects, and therefore recent studies have connected them to cancer prevention and natural enhancement of antitumor therapies.

Evidence suggests a role for omega-3 fatty acid supplementation in cancer prevention and reducing symptoms of treatments like chemotherapy. People who consume more long-chain omega-3s DHA and EPA seem to have a reduced risk of colorectal cancer.

After a large number of lab studies found that omega-3 fatty acids may be effective in slowing or reversing the growth of hormonal cancers, namely prostate cancer and breast cancer cells, animal and human epidemiological studies have been conducted to see whether this effect occurred in real-life scenarios.

However, additional information on this topic is still warranted. The quality of your diet is undoubtably linked to your overall health and ability to prevent cancer. However other factors are also important for cancer-prevention, such as exercising, avoiding medication and toxin exposure, not smoking or consuming too much alcohol, sleeping well and controlling stress.

Start by making one or two changes at a time to your diet, removing foods that you consume a lot of but that are known to increase cancer risk. Popular Nutrition Posts All Time This Week {position} Detox Your Liver: A 6-Step Liver Cleanse.