Cancer is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in the body that can drastically affect the body’s normal working mechanism. The old cells do not die. Instead, they grow out of control and form new abnormal cells. The extra cells usually form a tumor, which is a mass of tissue. The tumor can interrupt with body organs and their functioning and cause other health issues. Statistics suggest that every year, more than 1,000,000 new cases of cancer are diagnosed. This makes it more urgent to control or manage the disease even with the mildest of symptoms. In order to avoid a cancer diagnosis, gruelling medical treatments, frequent visits to health care clinics, and participating in clinical research, following a healthy diet is the first and the most important step to keep cancer symptoms at bay.

In the pursuit of supporting the fight against cancer, numerous charities and foundations stand out for their impactful contributions. The American Cancer Society (ACS) takes a multifaceted approach, channeling funds into groundbreaking research, patient assistance programs, and educational initiatives. The National Cancer Institute (NCI), a vital arm of the National Institutes of Health, plays a pivotal role in advancing cancer research and facilitating clinical trials, contributing significantly to our understanding of the disease. For those passionate about combating breast cancer, Susan G. Komen for the Cure is a global leader, focusing on research funding, education, and support for individuals affected by this prevalent form of cancer. Meanwhile, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital stands as a beacon of hope for pediatric cancer patients, ensuring that families never face financial burdens during their child’s treatment. The Cancer Research Institute (CRI) champions immunotherapy, funding research and fostering public awareness about this innovative cancer treatment. Lastly, the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society (LLS) is dedicated to finding cures for blood cancers, providing support, and advocating for policies that benefit patients. Supporting these charities empowers ongoing efforts to conquer cancer on multiple fronts, from groundbreaking research to compassionate patient care.

Here are some foods that have proven to reduce and better manage cancer symptoms:

1. Apples
Apple contains polyphenols, a plant-based compound that has several anti-cancer properties. Some research suggests that antioxidants present in apples can destroy free radicals that play a role in promoting cancerous growth. They also inhibit a protein called glucose transporter 2 (GLUT 2) which can slow down the progression of advanced stages of cancers.

2. Cruciferous vegetables
Cauliflower, cabbage, garden cress, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and kale are full of vitamin C, vitamin K, and manganese which help in maintaining the immune system of the body. It also contains a plant compound called sulforaphane which has several anti-cancer properties. Several studies show that sulforaphane can significantly slow cancer cells and stimulate apoptosis or cell suicide in colon cancer. It is also found that sulforaphane when combined with genistein, a compound present in soybeans, can reduce the growth or decrease the tumor size of breast cancer by blocking the growth of histone deacetylase.

3. Fatty fish
Fatty fish like herring, mackerel, anchovies, trout, and salmon contain omega-3 fatty acids which can reduce and delay tumor growth in breast and prostate cancer. Omega-3 fatty acids contain alpha-linolenic acid, eicosatetraenoic acid, and docosahexaenoic acid, which helps in better control and treatment of cancers. Omega-3 fatty acids can also be taken in the form of supplements prescribed by doctors.

4. Walnuts
Walnuts are not only categorized as power food but they are also considered to fight some forms of cancer. Walnuts contain a nutrient called pedunculagin which metabolizes into urolithins. The compound binds with estrogen and plays a major role in preventing breast cancer. Some studies have also suggested that walnut oil has tumor-suppressing genes that can inhibit malignant growth in the body.

5. Carrots
Carrots are full of essential nutrients such as vitamin K, vitamin A, and other antioxidants. They also contain beta-carotene, a compound that gives the vegetable its orange color. Several medical studies suggest that beta-carotene can reduce the risk of suffering from breast, stomach, lung, and prostate cancer.

Although these foods have been known to reduce cancer, it is important to consult an oncologist before consuming any of the above-mentioned foods to avoid any side effects. Apart from this, make sure to keep a close tab on unusual symptoms, pain or physical changes in the body and consult an oncologist so that they can prescribe proper treatment.