Five foods that fight breast cancer

Mushrooms

A study published in Nutrition and Cancer in 2010 found that higher mushroom intake is associated with a lower risk of breast cancer among women who are premenopausal. Cremini, oyster and shiitake mushrooms, among others, contain antioxidants such as L-ergothioneine that may confer cancer protection.

Try this: Add sliced mushrooms to scrambled eggs, frittatas, stews, stir-fries and your ground meat for burgers and meatloaf.

Broccoli sprouts

These peppery sprouts are high in sulforaphane, an antioxidant that University of Michigan scientists found may target and destroy cells that fuel tumour growth.

Try this: Add them to sandwiches, salads, soups and homemade pesto.

Pomegranates

The crunchy seeds of a pomegranate (also referred to as arils) are well endowed with ellagic acid, a potent antioxidant that may inhibit an enzyme that plays a role in breast cancer development, according to U.S. scientists from the City of Hope’s Beckman Research Institute.

Pomegranates, a rich source of antioxidants, have also been linked to improved heart health. You can get the same antioxidants from pure pomegranate juice, but drink only one cup (250 ml) a day to keep sugar intake in check, or have half of a fruit.

Try this: Garnish cottage cheese, salads, oatmeal and pilafs with pomegranate seeds. Add the juice to smoothies and iced tea.

Lentils

A study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition in 2009 analyzed the dietary patterns of more than 3,500 Asian-American women and found that a higher intake of legumes, which include lentils and beans, was associated with lower breast cancer risk.

Though often overlooked, budget-friendly lentils are brimming with folate, fibre and a host of other nutrients that may help keep breast cancer at bay.

Try this: Try lentil burgers and tacos. Make hearty weeknight pasta with whole-grain penne, lentils, sun-dried tomatoes, chopped kale and diced feta cheese.

Walnuts

Preliminary data suggests that snacking on up to two ounces (60 g) of walnuts a day could halt the development of breast cancer tumours. Researchers from West Virginia’s Marshall University School of Medicine surmise that walnuts’ omega-3s, antioxidants and phytosterols may help slow the growth of cancerous cells.

Try this: Add walnuts to brownie or muffin recipes. Or toast them in a dry skillet and add to salads, pizza and cooked grains such as quinoa.

Source: Best Health

Watch 14 Top Cancer Fighting Super Foods here: