Several studies undertaken over the past few decades have explored the potential of fruits and vegetables in combating various forms of cancer. During the course of these studies, scientists found that apart from the health benefits of fruits and vegetables in fighting cancer, it is also important to consider the effect of how they are harvested, handled and stored in order to assist the development of new strategies to prevent cancer.
For instance, a study undertaken by researchers in California showed that consumption of large amounts of fruits and vegetables helped to reduce the recurrence of cancer in women by half, provided they also exercised regularly. Findings of another study conducted by scientists at the Ohio State University revealed that fruits helped to inhibit cancer cell development and growth of cancer cells, Natural News reported.
Some of the fruits that possess high cancer-fighting properties are discussed below.
Apples
Apples contain a compound called procyanidins which can help to bring on apoptosis or natural death of cancer cells. In addition, apple peel contains phytochemicals called triterpenoids that can effectively stop cancer cell growth. Consumption of this fruit can help to prevent and treat colon, breast and liver cancers, Dr. Adem Gunes claimed.
Berries
Berries, especially sweet berries, contain powerful anti-carcinogenic compounds. Studies have shown that black raspberries helped to reduce oral, esophageal and colon cancers in rats. Blueberries are loaded with antioxidants like anthocyanosides and resveratrol and hence help in combating cancers. Similarly, strawberries are high in antioxidants, vitamin C and folic acids and can lessen the risks of esophageal cancer.
Citrus Fruits
All citrus fruits are loaded with vitamin C, in addition to containing beta-carotene, folate, potassium, dietary fiber, and potassium, and beta-carotene. Studies have shown that intake of citrus fruits help in preventing and treating oral, stomach, pharynx and larynx cancers.
Bananas
Studies have found that banana contains some compounds that are effectual in stopping liver and leukemia cancer cell production. It is said that consumption of more bananas is associated with lessening the chances of developing oral cancer, brain cancer, colorectal cancer, esophageal cancer and leukemia.
Pineapples
The stem of pineapple fruits contains bromelain enzyme that possesses the aptitude to sever the protective layer in tumors. At the same time, consuming pineapples support DNA repair as well as the growth of normal cells. Besides combating cancer, pineapple consumption also helps to strengthen the normal cells.
Grapes
It has been found that an extract of grape seed possesses the ability to destroy 75 percent of leukemia cells by activating a protein called JNK. This protein stimulates apoptosis in cancer cells. In addition, the seeds also contain the antioxidant resveratrol that promotes apoptosis in cancer cells in bowel, breast, lungs, stomach and prostate.
Pomegranate
This fruit is rich in antioxidant, flavonoid and tannin content. An extract from s pomegranate helps to put off development of a number of cancer forms, including breast, colon, lung and prostate. Clinical studies have confirmed that pomegranate possesses anti-cancer properties.
