Top Cancer-Fighting Foods

The Chronicle published an article about cancer-fighting foods. The article states that no single food can prevent cancer, but the right combination of foods may help make a difference. At mealtimes, strike a balance of at least two-thirds plant-based foods and no more than one-third animal protein. This "New American Plate" is an important cancer-fighting tool, according to the American Institute for Cancer Research.

Some studies have linked eating tomatoes to reduced risk of several types of cancer, including prostate cancer. Processed tomato products such as juice, sauce, or paste may increase the cancer-fighting potential. Tea, especially green tea, has slowed or prevented the development of cancer in colon, liver, breast, and prostate cells in laboratory studies. It also had a similar effect in lung tissue and skin. In some longer term studies, tea was associated with lower risks for bladder, stomach, and pancreatic cancers. Grapes and grape juice, especially purple and red grapes, contain resveratrol, which has strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Limiting alcohol can lower cancer risk.