4 essential nutrients linked to reduced cancer risk

If you have a family history of cancer or you're currently fighting the disease, certain lifestyle factors can affect your vulnerability to the illness. Diet has one of the largest impacts on people's abilities to battle cancer. Did you know that there are certain foods that contribute to your increased risk of cancer and others that support your body's immune system and boost your chances of fighting off the disease? While you may not have complete control over certain health conditions like cancer, HelpGuide.org pointed out that a significant percentage of cancer-related deaths are directly linked to maintaining an unhealthy diet. Even if you think that you're consuming a nutritious diet, you may actually be eating foods that fuel cancer, such as processed meats. Replace foods that aren't nourishing your cells with these powerful cancer-fighting nutrients:

1. Fiber

The American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) explained that fiber helps move cancer-causing compounds out of the digestive tract before they inflict harm. Consuming a diet that's high in fiber will contribute to a lower risk of digestive system cancers, such as colorectal, pharynx and stomach cancers. While fiber is included in foods like fruits, vegetables and whole grains, the more natural and unprocessed the product is, the more fiber it has and the more beneficial it is to your health. This is why increasing your intake of raw vegetables and fruits is essential, as they haven't been cooked or processed, which causes them to lose their fiber, enzymes, phytochemicals and other important nutrients. It will also help to start eating organic whole grains in place of refined white flour - a large component of the Standard American Diet.

2. Phytochemicals

Phytochemicals, such as triterpenoids, flavonoids, inositol, protease inhibitors and sterols are chemical compounds that occur naturally in plants. They're responsible for the deep color of some fruits and vegetables. They have been found to stimulate the immune system, repair DNA damage and slow the growth rate of cancer cells. They're also responsible for causing damaged cells to destroy themselves before they begin to reproduce as well as reducing inflammation that increases the chances of cancer growth, according to the AICR. Brightly colored vegetables and fruits, such as broccoli, carrots and tomatoes, are usually the best sources of phytochemicals and should be eaten regularly.

3. Protein

Protein is an essential nutrient because it supports the body in many of its functions and contributes to overall health. According to the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, protein is necessary for the growth and repair of all cells and comprises many amino acid building blocks that the human body is incapable of making, meaning they must come from your diet. Consuming regular protein becomes more important for people fighting or recovering from cancer because the body is working harder to repair the affected cells. However, it's important to choose where you're getting your protein from. For example, plant-based protein provides the body with antioxidants and fiber that strengthen the immune system and improve digestion in addition to repairing cells. Green vegetables like peas and leafy greens are particularly high in protein. The protein found in meat, on the other hand, can increase your risk of heart disease and cancer.

4. Vitamin D

The National Cancer Institute explained that while a lot of the recent studies that have examined the link between vitamin D and reduced cancer risk have been inconsistent, many of the results show thatincreased intake of vitamin D is associated with a lower risk of some cancers, including breast, prostate and pancreatic cancer. The institute also noted that several epidemiologic studies have found higher blood levels of vitamin D are linked to lower colorectal cancer rates. It's common for people looking to decrease their cancer risk to take vitamin D supplements to increase their intake if they aren't able to spend time in the sun.

Whether you want to lower your risk of cancer or you're on the path to recovery, introducing these key nutrients to your diet is fundamental to boosting your health and giving your body the fighting power it needs to withstand the disease. The Hallelujah Diet offers a personalized, plant-based eating plan that includes foods with all of these cancer-reducing nutrients. From raw fruits and vegetables to tasty juices and nutritional supplements, view the variety of products we offer by visiting our website and see how we can help get you on the path to healthy living!