Hey there, sis. Today, let's talk about something many of us struggle with: food. What does eating look like, especially after breast cancer? Honestly, it’s pretty much the same as for anyone who wants to be healthy. Eliminate highly processed foods and increase whole foods.
I know if you go to Google, it seems more complicated. Yes, there are some foods we should really increase, decrease, or even avoid. But that’s a whole other article. You know me, I want to make things as simple as possible for you. So, in this article, I'm sharing my top five anti-cancer foods I go to on a daily basis. Not only are these foods a powerful way to reduce the risk of recurrence, but they also support your overall health. Plus, they're super easy to incorporate.
Dark, Leafy Greens: Spinach, kale, collard greens—these powerhouse veggies are packed with cancer-fighting nutrients like vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber and antioxidants. Try adding a handful of greens to your smoothies, salads, or stir-fries for an extra boost of nutrition. So, those collard greens you have for Thanksgiving? Incorporate them a bit more often.
Berries: Blueberries, strawberries, raspberries—these colorful fruits are bursting with antioxidants called anthocyanins, which have been shown to inhibit cancer cell growth. Enjoy them as a sweet snack, or add them to your morning oatmeal or yogurt like I do.
Cruciferous Vegetables: Broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts—these veggies are rich in compounds called glucosinolates, which have been linked to lower cancer risk. Roast them, steam them, or toss them into a stir-fry for a delicious and nutritious side dish. These veggies are also known to cause bloating, especially when eaten raw. Yep, it happened to me. So, if you feel bloated or have gas after a meal, take note of what you ate—the veggies might be the culprit—sorry, broccoli.
Turmeric: This vibrant spice contains a powerful compound called curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Add a pinch of turmeric to soups, salads, stews, or roasted vegetables for a flavorful twist and an extra dose of health benefits.
Garlic: Not only does garlic add flavor to your favorite dishes, but it also contains sulfur compounds that may help reduce the risk of certain cancers. Chop it up and sauté it with veggies, or spread it on whole-grain bread for a tasty garlic toast.
The easiest way to incorporate these anti-cancer foods:
Start Small with "Lil Bit Better"
Making changes to our diet can feel overwhelming, but remember, every little bit counts. Choose one of the anti-cancer foods mentioned above and incorporate it into one meal daily. Maybe add more veggies to your lunch or dinner plate, or include turmeric and garlic into your veggies, or even add a serving of lean protein like grilled chicken or fish. Substitute something in each plate to make it just a "little bit better."
Favorite:
My go to warm drink: Hot water, a pinch of turmeric, a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar, ginger, and honey. Optional: pinch of cayenne pepper
Remember:
By starting small, making mindful choices, and focusing on nutrient-rich options, we can nourish our bodies and reduce the risk of cancer recurrence. So you can continue to declare, "Cancer, I Won!"
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