Cancer Fighting Foods

Earlier this year, I thought I'd join the Weight Watchers program and give that points counting program another try.

Once again, I ate a whole month's worth of points in a week. Oh, well. I do understand how the program works, but I rebel when faced with certain restrictions.

Despite the fact I don't do the program well, I do respect the program because if you follow its guidelines, you'll definitely eat healthier. I still receive their newsletters in my inbox, and I wanted to share with this article that can also be found on the Weight Watchers Website.

Foods That Help Fight Cancer

Article By: Megan Gressor

Eating well to lose weight can have some hidden benefits. Here are some scale-friendly nutrition facts that could also help you ward off cancer.






Almost everyone has been touched by cancer, either personally or by watching a loved one's battle. According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States, claiming more than a half-million lives annually. Each year, according to ACS projections, more than 1.3 million new cancer cases are diagnosed.






Researchers have linked about one-third of cancer deaths to dietary factors, such as those that contribute to obesity, according to the ACS.






Acing Antioxidants


Research has shown that people whose diets are rich in plant-based foods—fruits, vegetables and whole-grain breads and cereals—have a lower incidence of most cancers.


Why? One reason may be that people who eat more of these foods are less likely to be obese, which is a risk factor for some forms of cancer.



While researchers are still searching for the answers, it appears that plant foods, particularly produce, are rich in antioxidants and phytochemicals. According to the National Cancer Institute, antioxidants work to stabilize free radicals, which are unstable molecules that damage cells and may cause cancer. However, more research needs to be done in this area—particularly when antioxidants are taken in the form of dietary supplements.



Nutritionists recommend getting most of your nutrients through food rather than supplements, and eating in moderation from a wide variety of food groups, particularly grains, fruits and vegetables. Be sure to get the five servings of fruits and vegetables per day that Weight Watchers recommends.






Anti-Cancer Eating Plan


The following are some of the dietary recommendations from the American Cancer Society for reducing your risk of cancer:






•Eat a variety of vegetables and fruits each day, and include vegetables and fruits at every meal and for snacks.



•Eat smaller portions of high-calorie foods. Be aware that "low-fat" or "nonfat" does not mean "low-calorie" and that low-fat cakes, cookies, and similar foods are often high in calories.




•When you eat away from home, choose foods low in calories, fat and sugar, and avoid large portion sizes.


•Choose 100% juice if you drink vegetable or fruit juices.




•Choose whole-grain rice, bread, pasta and cereals, and limit consumption of refined carbohydrates, including pastries, sweetened cereals and other high-sugar foods.




•Choose fish, poultry or beans as an alternative to beef, pork and lamb. When you do eat meat, select lean cuts and eat smaller portions.


•Prepare meat by baking, broiling or poaching, rather than by frying or charbroiling.


•Limit alcohol intake to no more than 2 drinks per day for men and 1 drink a day for women. (A drink is defined as 12 ounces of beer, 5 ounces of wine, or 1.5 ounces of 80-proof distilled spirits.)


6 Ways to Eat More Fruits and Vegetables


Alas, 80 percent of us don't consume anything close to five servings of fruits and veggies, according to the American Dietetic Association. Here's how you can up your intake.


•Favor dishes incorporating as many plant-based ingredients as possible, such as stir-fries, soups, salads and rice salads.




•Keep crunchy raw vegetables on hand, such as carrot sticks, jicama and pepper strips.

Jicama - high in fiber and Vitamin C

•Add leafy greens such as spinach leaves and watercress to sandwiches.

Watercress -a leafy, peppery plant, high in minerals and Vitamin C

•Consider nutrient-rich squash as a side dish.


•Top cereal and salads with fruit, nuts, sesame seeds or pumpkin seeds.



•Empty a can of beans or tomatoes into your favorite casserole