What Is a Cancer Prevention Diet?

Many people who are concerned about the possibility of getting cancer choose to follow a cancer prevention diet. This is more of a change in lifestyle rather than a typical diet. It involves eating more fruits and vegetables, especially organic varieties. This macrobiotic diet also includes a great deal of fiber and as few monounsaturated oils and fats as possible. Many people also choose to eliminate artificial colors, additives, and preservatives from their foods.

Eating lots of fruits and vegetables is one mainstay of a cancer prevention diet. Many nutritionists recommend eating these foods raw whenever possible. Since many pesticides are thought to contribute to cancer, a diet to prevent this disease should contain organic produce whenever possible.

A diet rich in fiber is also thought to be an effective cancer preventative. Brown rice, beans, and oatmeal are good foods to add to a cancer prevention diet. Whole grain pasta and bread can be substituted for those made from white flour.

Reducing the amount of meat being consumed is also a component of a cancer prevention diet. This is especially true of red meat because it normally has a very high fat content. Processed meats, such as bologna and hot dogs, should be avoided whenever possible. Lean meats, such as chicken and fish, are recommended over beef. Organic chicken, which comes from animals that have not been given hormones, is an especially good choice.

People who wish to try a cancer prevention diet should not only cut down on the amount of meat they eat but also be careful about how it is prepared. This means meat should not be fried in heavy oils. Baking or broiling meat is generally preferred because this reduces the amount of fat while preserving a good deal of flavor.

Processed foods should be avoided when following a cancer prevention diet. This includes commercially produced cakes, pies, and other pastries. These types of foods are generally high in fat and provide very little nutrition. They also normally contain white flour and sugar, two things that can affect whole body health when eaten in excess.

A cancer prevention diet can reduce the odds of a person contracting this disease. An added benefit to this regimen is that it can boost the immune system, which can help people fight off other minor illnesses. These things make trying this diet a good idea for people who would like to improve their whole body health.