Cancer is an affliction that needs to be eradicated but the world is a long way off from achieving this goal.
In the meantime, healthy dietary choices can help you modify your risk of the potentially deadly condition.
While no specific food can guarantee the prevention of cancer, anti-inflammatory foods may help cut your risk, according to Dr Sunni Patel, from Dish Dash Deets.
The doctor explained that chronic inflammation is linked to a higher risk of cancer development.
Fortunately, eating a variety of healthy, anti-inflammatory foods may help offer protection.
1.Legumes
Packed with fibre, protein and antioxidants, the likes of lentils, chickpeas and beans can provide anti-inflammatory effects.
Dr Sunni explained that fibre can promote a healthy gut microbiome, which plays a role in immune function and inflammation regulation.
He said: “Include legumes like beans, lentils, and chickpeas in your diet several times per week. Around one to two servings per day is a good goal.”
2. Green tea
Rich in polyphenols including a “powerful” one called EGCG, green tea offers more than a warming drink and kick of caffeine.
Polyphenols are a category of compounds naturally found in plant foods that have anti-inflammatory properties.
They can help neutralise harmful molecules called free radicals, which can cause oxidative stress and trigger inflammation, the doctor said.
3. Turmeric
Whether you use it as the main ingredient in your curry or drink it in a latte, turmeric has an impressive nutritional profile.
The yellow spice contains an active compound called curcumin which has “potent” anti-inflammatory effects.
Dr Sunni recommended adding turmeric to your meals whenever possible to enhance flavour and get the health effects.
However, you need to keep in mind that you need black pepper or fat to activate curcumin’s powers.
4. Olive oil
Extra virgin olive oil is packed with unsaturated fats and antioxidants, including oleocanthal, which exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, the doctor shared.
5. Dark chocolate
While milk chocolate is a beloved sweet treat, opting for the really dark stuff can boost your flavonoid content and therefore dampen down inflammation.
The doctor explained that polyphenols found in the snack have been shown to modulate inflammatory pathways and reduce the culprit.