[Healthy_Recipes_For_Diabetic_Friends] Preventing Cancer Supplements and Nutrition

Thursday, May 28, 2009

[Healthy_Recipes_For_Diabetic_Friends] Preventing Cancer Supplements and Nutrition

Preventing Cancer Part 1: Supplements

We all need essential fatty acids for optimum health, but most
Americans consume far too many omega-6 fatty acids (mainly from
vegetable oils), and not enough omega-3 fatty acids (found in oily
fish, walnuts and freshly ground flaxseed). This imbalance can
lead to an increased risk of heart disease, inflammatory conditions,
cancer and other health concerns.

While eating several servings of oily fish (I prefer wild Alaskan
salmon and sardines) per week is a start, you may want to consider
fish oil supplements, especially if you don't enjoy fish. Available
in liquid or capsule forms, fish oil is effective at helping to
reduce blood pressure, is beneficial to the nervous system, and can
even help alleviate mild to moderate depression. Omega-3 fatty acids
may also help support the health of breast tissue by maintaining
healthy breast cells, a positive note for women with a family history
of breast cancer. Look for capsules or oil that are certified free
of contaminants, and begin with small daily doses, building up to
the recommended amount.

Preventing Cancer Part 2: Nutrition
Yesterday's Daily Tip focused on cancer and supplements; today we
look at nutrition and its relationship to cancer. A healthy diet can
help the body in its efforts to heal itself, and in some cases,
particular foods can lessen the risks of serious illness. To help
reduce your risk of some types of cancer, try the following:

1. Avoid polyunsaturated vegetable oils, margarine, vegetable shortening,
all partially hydrogenated oils, and all foods that might contain
trans-fatty acids (such as deep-fried foods).

2. Increase omega-3 fatty acids by eating more cold water oily fish,
freshly ground flaxseeds, and walnuts.

3. Reduce consumption of animal foods and try to replace them with
vegetable proteins such as whole soy products.

4. Use hormone-free, organically produced products whenever possible.

5. Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.

6. Eat shiitake, enokitake, maitake, and oyster mushrooms frequently.

7. Drink green tea daily.

From: Dr Weil