In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness month, let’s talk food for better health!
Most people know that berries are high in antioxidants, which help prevent cell damage; and that foods like nuts and cold water fish are high in Omega 3’s, which help prevent inflammation, in turn, keeping our brains and hearts healthy. But are you familiar with phytonutrients? Phytonutrients are highly nutritious active compounds that plants produce to protect themselves from bacteria and viruses, but they help the human body as well. This is why foods high in phytonutrients are fabulous for cancer prevention!
Here are four foods that are very high in phytonutrients; make them a part of your daily meal planning!
Kale – This mighty veggie is high in fiber, which aids digestion; vitamin K and omega-3’s, which are anti-inflammatory; vitamin A, and more calcium than milk. A true superfood!
In addition to being high in vitamins C and E, Papaya is rich is beta-carotene, powerful antioxidants which helps boost immunity.
Whole grains like quinoa and oats provide fiber to help fill us up and improve digestion, but recent research shows that their phytonutrients can help prevent some types of cancer. They contain ferulic and ellagic acids, anti-oxidants that block free radicals, but can also protect cells from radiation damage when in cancer treatment.
Cruciferous veggies, such as broccoli, cabbage, and yes, kale, have anti-cancer properties because of the phytonutrients sulforaphane, flavonols, and kaempherol they contain. These phytonutrients have been shown to reduce oxidative stress. Broccoli also contains vitamin C, which is a potent antioxidant and something that I eat almost every day!
Best of Health,
Kathi
