A healthy immune system can help destroy cancer cells as well as preventing them from multiplying or forming tumors. Unhealthy diets that are made up of too many animal fats, dairy products, white flours and sugars can cause the body to become acidic and lead to acidosis. Acidosis weakens body`s immune system and although easily overlooked during routine exams, can cause many health problems such as, but not limited to osteoporosis, diabetes, joint and muscle pain as well as cancer.
A healthy diet that is made up of at least 80% fresh vegetables, cooked, eaten raw or juiced, is all it takes to regulate pH balance and take the body from an acidic state to a more alkaline state. Fresh raw vegetables are especially effective because they provide live enzymes that are quickly and easily absorbed, providing nourishment and stimulating the growth of healthy cells.
Homemade Juices
Many canned or bottled juices are loaded with added sugars and contain high levels of sodium, so investing in a juice extractor and making juices at home is the only way of knowing that the juice is in fact 100% fruit or vegetable juice. Fresh juices are at their nutritional best when consumed immediately so that there is no chance for oxidization to weaken the effects of the juice`s nutrients.
Include a variety of dark leafy green vegetables to juices. Kale, spinach, beet tops and leafy varieties of lettuce are all high in chlorophyll and help build healthy red blood cells. Dark leafy greens are also thought to be effective in lowering high blood pressure, decreasing the risk of stroke and heart disease as well as certain cancers.
Raw or Cooked?
Some health enthusiasts claim that more nutrients and antioxidants can be absorbed from raw vegetables, yet others maintain that vegetables are healthier when they are cooked. In a way, both are correct. Broccoli for example, contains enzymes that are compromised during the cooking process, whereas spinach is said to provide more nutrition when it has been heated. If the choice between raw or cooked vegetables is too hard to make, why not enjoy both?
- To preserve nutrient value when cooking vegetables, lightly steam them instead of boiling.
- Add flavor to steamed vegetables by adding a little lemon or lime juice rather than butter or margarine.
- Never overcook vegetables. Steam until they are el dente.
Foods to Cut Down On
When eating to prevent cancer, it is not only important to add cancer fighting foods to the diet, but to eliminate foods that feed cancer.
Meat
- According to the Canadian Cancer Society, although it is full of vitamin B12, zinc and iron, many people eat too much meat, which can lead to weight gain which can increase the risk of certain cancers.
- Non-organic meats can contain antibiotics and hormones which are harmful to everyone, but especially to those with cancer.
Caffeine
- Avoid any beverage that contains caffeine.
- Replace hot caffeine drinks with water or green tea. Green tea contains cancer fighting properties.
Sugar
- Sugar is high in calories but has little nutritional value. Too many sugary foods and drinks can make it easier to gain weight. Being overweight can increase the risk of certain cancers as well as heart attack and stroke.
It is important to keep in mind that while properly nourished body is an imperative part of living cancer free, the mind must be nourished too. Learning to live a happier, more positive life is a big part in the fight against cancer.
Laurie Pizans - I am a wife and the mother of three grown children and one silly yellow dog. I quit work a few years back due to health problems, but work ...
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