Role of Nutrition in Preventive Cancer Essay Example

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Consuming calorie-rich dairy products can lead to obesity, while the consumption of meat is associated with an increased risk of cancer. To prevent exposure to carcinogens, it is recommended to refrain from high-temperature cooking using oils and fats. Lower temperature cooking methods can be employed to minimize the formation of cancer-causing agents.

According to a study conducted by Danaei et al (1795), it is advised to avoid deep frying and instead choose healthier cooking methods like steaming, boiling, and baking. It's also crucial to prevent the formation of carcinogens by not overcooking meat. Furthermore, individuals should abstain from eating food or meat that appears moldy or has a foul smell as they may contain substantial amounts of aflatoxins – substances associated with different types of cancer.

Opting for organic meat instead of processed meat can aid in the management of cancer because processed meat frequently contains genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and potent antibiotics, both of which elevate the chances of cancer development. Moreover, crucial nutrients play a vital role in hindering the proliferation of cancer cells. Incorporating an assortment of plant-based foods like beans, fruits, and nuts into a well-balanced meal also diminishes the risk of acquiring cancer.

Stadler (3) states that plant-based nutrients have been found to enhance the immune system and boost resistance to cancer infections. Fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants like vitamin C, selenium, and vitamin E, which effectively aid the immune system in combating cancer cells. Furthermore, these nutrients improve the functionality of body cells, making them more resistant to cancerous cells.

Consumption of vegetables rich in carotenoids, such as carrots and squash, can reduce the risks of mouth, lung, and pharynx cancers.

Additionally, diets abundant in fruits can decrease the risks of lung and stomach cancers. Foods like guava, tomatoes, and watermelon that contain high levels of lycopene play a role in preventing prostate cancer (Danaei 20). These foods are most effective at preventing cancer when they undergo minimal processing, including less cooking and mixing with other ingredients. To prevent cancer, it is recommended to include plenty of fruits and vegetables in a daily diet. Moreover, foods with high fiber content are beneficial for cancer prevention as they add bulk to food and are harder for the body to digest.

Fiber, found in vegetables, grains, and fruits, aids in the smooth movement of food through the digestive system and supports a healthy and clear digestive tract. Additionally, it plays a crucial role in preventing cancer by eliminating harmful substances during digestion. Specifically, fiber provides protection against colorectal cancer as well as cancers of the pharynx, mouth, and stomach (Danaei 18).

In the US and other certain countries, meat that doesn't have enough fiber and nutrients to prevent cancer is often obtained from genetically modified animals or animals fed GMO feeds. Moreover, this kind of meat is typically preserved using high levels of hormones and powerful antibiotics (Key et al 190), which are significant contributors to cancer. Additionally, consuming red meat is linked to higher levels of saturated fats, which compromise individuals' well-being and increase susceptibility to cancer risks. To decrease the likelihood of developing cancer, it is recommended to reduce consumption of red meat or choose healthier alternatives while increasing intake of fiber-rich vegetables and fruits.

To reduce the risk of cancer, it is recommended to avoid processed meat and

choose organic meat that has not been treated with antibiotics or fed GMOs. Alternatively, one can replace red and processed meats with poultry, fish, or protein-rich vegetables. It should be noted that having high levels of fats in the body can increase the likelihood of developing cancer, particularly trans fat which is considered the most hazardous (Key et al 192).

Trans fats, which are created by hydrogenating liquid vegetable oils to make them solid, can increase the risk of cancer. Unhealthy saturated fats, especially those found in fast food, are also known for increasing this risk. Fats have a strong association with colorectal cancer, a disease that has high mortality rates. Consuming excessive amounts of fats can lead to elevated levels of bile acids or toxic fatty acids in the large intestine.

The inclusion of fats from nuts, avocados, and olive oil in one's diet may lead to obesity and an increased risk of cancer. It is recommended that individuals opt for healthier unsaturated fats instead. Omega 3 fats also offer benefits in fighting against cancer. To lower the chances of developing cancer, it is advised to choose unsaturated cooking fats rather than fast fried foods. Furthermore, adding seeds and nuts to meals is suggested as a means of preventing cancer ("Cancer Prevention Diet: Lower Your Risk With Cancer-Fighting Foods").

Beta-carotene, an antioxidant nutrient, contains carotenoids that act as anticancer substances. Both vegetables and vitamin C protect the lungs against lung cancer. Carrots, kale, and squash are exceptional sources of carotene (Key et al 190).

Fruits like mangoes are rich in carotene which helps protect the lung linings. Beta-carotene and selenium found in nutrients provide additional protection against cancer.

It is important for people to consume vegetables and fruits that are deep yellow or dark green as they contain high levels of beta carotenes (Key et al 188). Calcium, as a dietary nutrient, combines with bile and fatty acids in the intestines, preventing them from causing harm to the intestinal wall (Donaldson 19).

Calcium is effective in binding with carcinogens in the intestines and helping to eliminate them through feces. Fiber also plays a crucial role in binding fatty acids, ensuring the health of the bowel wall. To prevent gastrointestinal tract cancer, it is essential to consume enough calcium-rich foods (Key et al 200). Additionally, including an adequate amount of cruciferous vegetables in one's diet is crucial as these vegetables provide substantial protection against colon cancer. Therefore, individuals who regularly consume raw cabbages can enhance their defense against cancer.

Proper nutrition and maintaining a healthy body weight play a significant role in preventing cancer. According to the American research institute for cancer, around 40 percent of cancer types can be prevented through following balanced diets, consuming high-fiber foods, and avoiding foods high in fats (Key et al 200). By observing these nutritional practices, the spread of cancer infections can be prevented (Helpguide.org; Danaei et al 2005; Doll and Peto 1981; Donaldson).

Nutrition Journal 3.1 (2004): 19. Web. 31 May 2016.

• Key, Timothy J., et al. "Diet, nutrition and the prevention of cancer." Public health nutrition 7.1a (2004): 187-200.
• Stadler, Kathleen. The Diet and Cancer Connection.

1st edition. Web. May 31, 2016.