Spring Clean Your Diet

Around 66 percent of Americans are either overweight or obese. And every year, a third of all cancer deaths in the U.S. are related to poor diet and lack of physical activity. Maybe it’s time to ask yourself if your diet needs a little spring cleaning.

According to the American Cancer Society, there is clear evidence that links being overweight or obese with a higher risk of the following cancers: breast, colon and rectum, endometrium, esophagus, kidney and pancreas. There is also evidence that being overweight or obese is likely to increase the risk of the following cancers: gallbladder, liver, Non-Hodgkin lymphoma, multiple myeloma, cervix, ovary and aggressive forms of prostate cancer. 

What can you do to substantially lower your risk of developing these types of cancer? Become physically active on a regular basis and eat a healthy diet with a focus on plant-based foods. The American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) “recommends filling at least 2/3 of your plate with vegetables, fruit, whole grains and beans.” 

There are many different foods that contain cancer-fighting nutrients that are great additions to a healthy diet. But it can sometimes be difficult obtaining these “superfoods.” Not to worry – Hope Cancer Resources narrowed down a list of fruits and veggies with cancer-fighting properties that are currently in-season in Arkansas (click on the images for some yummy recipes!).

Broccoli
 

Cabbage
 

Carrots
 

Cauliflower
 

Onions
 

Peas
 

Spinach
 

Strawberries
 

For more foods that contain cancer-fighting properties, visit the AICR’s Foods that Fight Cancer webpage.