Diet to combat cancer cells

Dear Donovan,

I am currently battling breast cancer and have been researching foods that can help my fight while I go through treatment. What are the fruits or foods that combat cancer cells?

Breast cancer is the uncontrolled growth of breast cells. In general, cancer occurs when there is mutation or abnormal changes in the genes which are responsible for controlling the growth and health of cells. In some cases, mutation causes some cells to divide and grow on their own without being under control. This usually results in the formation of tumours.

Tumours can either be benign (not cancerous) or malignant (potential to be cancerous). Malignant tumours can become cancerous if left unchecked. Breast cancer is therefore an example of malignant tumours that have developed from breast cells. It should be noted that 85 to 90 per cent of breast cancers are due to abnormalities that occur due to the ageing process of the body.

However, there are some steps which a person can take to reduce the risk of breast cancer. These include eating a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, not smoking, reducing stress, and exercising regularly. In addition, your diet is thought to be responsible for 20 to 40 per cent of all cancers. However, it should be noted that while no food or diet can prevent you from getting cancer, some foods can boost the immune system and lower the risk of getting cancer.

In your situation, it is very important to make the body as healthy as possible while undergoing treatment. Your diet should therefore boost your immune system and make your body alkaline. Foods should also be easily digested, nutritious, and full of fibre and antioxidants.

You must ensure that your diet is sufficient in fruits, vegetables, vegetable juices, whole grains and seeds. Also, it is best to eat several small meals per day instead of one or two large meals. In addition, fried foods, sodas and high carbohydrate foods should be avoided. It is also important to reduce exposure to chemicals like pesticides and hormones. Studies have shown that women with a low level of Vitamin D are more prone to breast cancer, so make sure that you are taking enough Vitamin D. Good luck!

We will answer your weight-related questions

Are you struggling to lose weight, or just need some advice on living a healthier life? Tell us about your health issues and we’ll have nutritionist and wellness coach Donovan Grant answer them for you. Grant has over 12 years’ experience in the fitness industry and is the owner of DG’s Nutrition and Wellness Centre, 39 Lady Musgrave Road. Call him at 876-286-1363. E-mail questions to clarkep@jamaicaobserver.com.