Meat(less) Monday: Recipes, nutrition tips and advice on food your body will thank you for. OK, maybe not completely meatless, but healthy, for sure. 

By: Amy Schafer

There are so many good reasons to eat healthy. If telling you that you’ll feel better and look better isn’t enough, maybe telling you certain healthy foods can possibly decrease your risk of cancer will suffice.  

While no one food can miraculously cure cancer, some foods have cancer-fighting nutrients.

Broccoli

According to Health Magazine, broccoli contains enzymes that protect the body and flush out harmful chemicals. This green veggie helps fight against breast, liver, lung, prostate, skin, stomach and bladder cancers.

Berries

Loaded with phytonutrients, berries are nutritional powerhouses. They contain high amounts of antioxidants, which neutralize free radicals. Berries help fight against cancers such as colon, esophageal, skin and oral.

Walnuts

This nut is capable slowing the growth of cancer by blocking estrogen receptors in breast cancer cells. One ounce a day is all you need to fight prostate or breast cancer.

While these foods are great for prevention, there are also some foods that should be avoided if you want to protect yourself from cancer. Meat (especially processed, think hotdogs), cheese and butter should be replaced with lean protein (think fish), low-fat dairy and beans. Excessive alcohol (although not a food) should be limited since it has been linked to an increased risk of cancers of the mouth, esophagus and breast. However, some studies suggest that red wine (in moderation) may help prevent cancer. 

Photo courtesy of quickblogcast.com