10/27/2025
Q&A βοΈ Cancer βοΈ
what to eat and what to avoid βοΈ
π₯¦ Foods to Eat (Cancer-Fighting / Healing)
These support immunity, reduce inflammation, and help fight abnormal cell growth.
πΏ 1. Vegetables (especially cruciferous)
β’ Broccoli, cauliflower, kale, cabbage, Brussels sprouts
β Contain sulforaphane and indoles that help destroy cancer cells.
π 2. Fruits rich in antioxidants
β’ Berries (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
β’ Grapes (with skin), oranges, kiwi, pomegranate
β High in vitamin C and polyphenols that repair cell damage.
π§ 3. Garlic, onions, leeks
β’ Contain organosulfur compounds that slow tumor growth and boost immunity.
πΎ 4. Whole grains
β’ Oats, quinoa, brown rice, barley
β Contain fiber that helps remove toxins and balance hormones.
π« 5. Legumes and beans
β’ Lentils, chickpeas, black beans
β Provide plant-based protein and phytonutrients.
π« 6. Healthy fats
β’ Olive oil, avocado, flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts
β Anti-inflammatory omega-3 fats protect cells.
π 7. Fatty fish
β’ Salmon, sardines, mackerel (wild-caught preferred)
β Rich in omega-3s that may reduce cancer-related inflammation.
π΅ 8. Green tea
β’ Contains EGCG, a compound shown to block tumor cell growth.
π 9. Mushrooms
β’ Especially shiitake, maitake, reishi β boost immune defense.
π§ 10. Water & herbal teas
β’ Hydration helps detoxify and reduce treatment side effects.
π« Foods to Avoid (Cancer-Promoting / Inflammatory)
These can increase oxidative stress, inflammation, or hormone imbalance.
β 1. Processed meats
β’ Bacon, sausage, hot dogs, deli meats β linked to colon and stomach cancer.
β 2. Red meat (limit intake)
β’ Especially charred or grilled β may form carcinogens like HCAs and PAHs.
β 3. Refined sugars & sweets
β’ Soda, pastries, candy β feed cancer cells and increase inflammation.
β 4. Processed foods & white flour
β’ White bread, chips, fast food β low nutrients, promote blood sugar spikes.
β 5. Alcohol
β’ Increases risk of breast, liver, colon, and esophageal cancers.
β 6. Trans fats / hydrogenated oils
β’ Found in fried foods, margarine, packaged snacks.
β 7. Artificial additives
β’ Avoid nitrates, MSG, and artificial colors/flavors when possible.
β 8. Dairy (for some people)
β’ Can increase IGF-1 hormone that may fuel tumor growth (especially hormone-sensitive cancers).
β 9. Fried & Processed Foods
β’ Contain trans fats and harmful compounds formed at high heat.
β’ Trigger inflammation and oxidative stress.
πΈ Bonus Tips
β’ Aim for organic produce when possible (reduces pesticide load).
β’ Eat the rainbow β variety means more protective nutrients.
β’ Maintain a healthy gut with probiotic foods (sauerkraut, kefir, yogurt if tolerated).
β’ Stay physically active and manage stress β both influence cancer risk.
πΏ Lifestyle Tips
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Maintain a healthy weight (excess fat raises estrogen levels).
β
Exercise regularly (30 min/day, even brisk walking).
β
Manage stress β yoga, prayer, meditation, or nature walks.
β
Sleep well β poor sleep affects hormone balance and immunity.