Foods that prevent cancer

4. Take good quality food supplements. While the WCRF recommends that people aim to meet their nutritional needs through food, Armstrong says this is not always possible – and not only because of our busy schedules. “We know from the literature and studies of food nutrients over time that the percentages of many vitamins and minerals in veggies have plunged since the 1930s and 40s, so it seems prudent to supplement, that is, until the soils that grow most of our foods have been remediated sufficiently to provide what our bodies need,” Armstrong says.

A caveat: Not all vitamin supplements are created equal and there is much controversy about recommended dosage. Research has shown that high doses of nutrient supplements can both protect against and cause cancer. Because of this, Armstrong recommends consulting with your doctor or a nutritionist before supplementing. For more information on vitamin supplements, click here.

Cancer facts from the World Health Organization
• Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide. There are more than 100 types of cancers; any part of the body can be affected.

• In 2005, 7.6 million people died of cancer. This represents 13 per cent of all deaths.

• Worldwide, the 5 most common types of cancer that affect men are (in order of number of global deaths): lung, stomach, liver, colorectal, oesophageal and prostate.

• Worldwide, the 5 most common types of cancer that affect women are (in order of global deaths): breast, lung, stomach, colorectal and cervical.

• Tobacco use is the single largest preventable cause of cancer in the world.

• 40 per cent of cancer can be prevented by having a healthy diet, being physically active, and not smoking.

Sources: World Cancer Research Fund; American Institute for Cancer Research; World Health Organization; WCRK UK

ON THE WEB
For more on protecting yourself from cancer, click here.
For healthy recipe ideas, click here.

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