Turmeric is yet another plant that is so versatile that it’s found its way not only in the cuisines of many countries, but also in the cosmetic industry, the pharmaceutical industry, and more.
Among the rest, turmeric contains protective compounds, including curcumin, has anti-oxidant properties that may help the body combat inflammation, can help ease arthritis, can help limit the growth of cancerous cells, protects cells from damage, and reduces the signs of ageing.
3. Mushrooms
A study conducted on 36 thousand participants over several decades showed that incorporating mushrooms in the diet helps reduce the risk of developing prostate cancer. Mushrooms are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, in particular L-ergothioneine, thought to help reduce oxidative stress.
Another study suggest mushrooms may help prevent breast cancer, likely due to compounds like glutathione, ergothioneine, and polysaccharides. Medicinal varieties like reishi, turkey tail, shiitake, and maitake boost antitumor immunity, with turkey tail’s PK polysaccharide aiding cancer therapy.
4. Allium Vegetables
Onions, shallots, leeks, and garlic are anti-cancer foods said to prevent certain cancers such as colon cancer and other cancers related to the gut.
According to a research, onion and garlic possess “promising biological activities that are indicative of their potential as potent antioxidant and anticancer agents.”
5. Wakame
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Wakame is an edible type of seaweed that is believed to suppress the growth of breast cancer, colon cancer, and kidney cancer cells. The research showing these results has been performed in a lab using animals, so its properties on humans are yet to be researched.
Also, wakame contains around 42mcg of iodine per serving.
6. Lycopene-Rich Foods
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Lycopene is a phytochemical, or a biologically active chemical found in plants. Since it’s not produced within the body, it’s not considered neither a vitamin nor mineral.
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