YOUR DIET AND CANCER: FIGHT CANCER WITH FRESH VEGETABLES

Fresh Green Veggies 

OK. Let's be frank. I know... the taste of veggies can sometimes be bland and unexciting; the colour and texture, uninspiring. Why else, would children (and some adults, too)  have to be coaxed into eating their veggies. 

Vegetables of all colours, types and shapes are great for your body. They are, after all, one of Nature's Super Elixirs. From the green ones to the red ones and then the purple coloured ones and of course, the cruciferous vegetables (which are the broccoli, cabbage, kale and so on). 

According to research, eating veggies could prevent the onset of cancer and death from cancer. Vegetables are rich in anti-cancer compounds that fight the most common cancers in men and women which are prostrate, lung, ovarian and breast cancer. 

Vegetables in general, and cruciferous vegetables in particular, are rich in vitamins such as vitamin A carotenoids, vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin B12, vitamin E; minerals such as iron, magnesium, zinc, phosphorus, potassium and manganese; carbs, protein, folic acid, fibre and omega 3 fatty acids. 

The fibre content in vegetables is critical for your digestive health. This vital nutrient aids the smooth movement of solid waste by softening your stool and adding more bulk to it. You might ask, what does all these have to do with cancer? Well, one of the risk factors of colon cancer is irregular /infrequent bowel movements, therefore, adequate fibre  intake reduces your risk of developing colon cancer. The fibre in vegetables also ensures your body gets rid of bad cholesterol and fats, so your body doesn't store them around your abdominal organs. Abdominal fat is the most dangerous kind of fat to have. 

The rich antioxidant content in vegetables help reduce inflammation and the activities of free radicals in our bodies, thereby, boosting the body's immunity and reducing the risk of cancer. 

A diet rich in veggies supports detoxification. Leafy green veggies help your body detox naturally. They are rich in chlorophyll that neutralize toxic chemicals and pesticides that get into our bodies through the foods we consume. By getting rid of these harmful toxins that get into the body from food and also from the environment, you are preventing the onset of cancer. 

Vegetables are also rich in phytonutrients, which has the potential for cancer prevention. Studies have shown eating vegetables can be linked with an increased rate of survival for cancer patients. 

Eat them fresh or slightly cooked or steamed. Don't overcook. Your daily requirement could be met if you include them in every meal plan.

Let vegetables be at the very heart of your diet. Go out and buy some fresh veggies today!