According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide, with approximately 10 million deaths reported in 2020. Cancer does not affect a particular gender or age group. The most common types of cancer among Americans include breast cancer, lung cancer, colon cancer, skin cancer, and prostate cancer. While several external factors, such as smoking, chemical exposure, and diet can contribute to the development of cancer; several so called superfoods can actually deter the development of cancers, such as: 1. Cruciferous vegetables There are several different types of vegetables in the cruciferous family including broccoli, cauliflower, brussels sprouts, kale, and cabbage. Each of these vegetables has its own unique set of health benefits, but they are all high in fiber and contain cancer-fighting compounds known as glucosinolates. Sulforaphane is a compound that occurs naturally in cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli and kale. Your body processes sulforaphane by converting it into another compound called sulforaphane. Sulforaphane is the compound that gives these vegetables their health benefits. Sulforaphane has been shown to have potent anticancer activity. It can inhibit cancer cell growth and stimulate cancer cell death. Sulforaphane can also inhibit histone deacetylase (HDAC), an enzyme with links to cancer development.

Eczema (atopic dermatitis) is a condition that affects the skin. It is characterized by dry patches, oozing blisters, redness, and itching. Eczema is more prevalent in children less than two years old, and many outgrow it over time; however, some do continue to experience eczema as adults. Studies have additionally shown that many people diagnosed with eczema also have food allergies.  Thus, many patients experience eczema flare-ups after consuming certain foods and therefore need to stick to an anti-eczema diet. Read on for six foods to avoid for eczema.  1. Dairy products Dairy products are a major trigger of food allergies, so an individual with eczema is likely to have their symptoms worsen after consuming such products. However, while cow’s milk is a common eczema trigger in children, you should not be deterred from giving milk to your child. Milk is crucial for development in children, and total elimination of milk from a child’s diet can result in certain vitamin deficiencies, among other health problems. It is only advisable to eliminate milk from a child’s diet if the doctor recommends it. In such instances, the doctor will recommend appropriate alternatives. 2. Citrus fruits Citrus fruits such as lemon, orange, lime, and grapefruit are excellent sources of vitamin C.

Osteoporosis is a condition that affects the bones, making them weak and susceptible to fractures. Luckily, you can still take steps to protect your bones by making healthy food choices. In this blog post, we will discuss foods that can help keep your bones strong and healthy!  If you are concerned about developing osteoporosis, here are some foods that you can eat to help prevent the disease:  1. Plain yogurt Yogurt is a great source of calcium, protein, and magnesium, which are needed for healthy bones and teeth. In addition to these nutrients, yogurt contains lactobacillus bacteria that produce lactic acid. This acid works to break down the calcium in your body into usable forms. Moreover, if you are lactose intolerant or vegan, plain yogurt alternatives provide calcium in different ways. For example, almond milk yogurt has added calcium along with vitamin D for absorption, which means more calcium for your bones! 2. Flaxseed These tiny seeds contain a powerful nutrient called lignan, a natural phytoestrogen. Phytoestrogens mimic the effects of estrogen in your body and can help fight osteoporosis by slowing down calcium loss from your bones. Flaxseed is also a rich source of many nutrients, including calcium, magnesium, and potassium.

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that can cause inflammation and pain in various body parts. Symptoms of lupus vary from person to person, but characteristically include fever, joint pain, chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue. There is no cure for lupus, but flare-ups can be managed to help lessen their impact.  Lupus flare ups can vary in severity and duration, making it essential for people with lupus to learn how to recognize the early signs and take steps to manage them. One common way to keep on top of flare ups is to recognize and avoid trigger foods.  The following five foods are known to trigger flare ups of the disease: 1. Alfalfa sprouts Alfalfa sprouts are seedlings that contain an amino acid called L-canavanine, which can break down proteins in the body, producing effects that mirror lupus. The sprouts may cause headaches, stomach pain, and skin rashes when eaten. These symptoms can last up to three days after consumption. If eaten in high enough quantities, alfalfa sprouts can even lead to death. It is possible, however, to eat alfalfa without experiencing symptoms. By removing the lower leaves and cutting them into small pieces, the effects are diminished, making the sprouts safe for consumption again.

Studies show that one in 7 men will be diagnosed with prostate cancer in their lifetime. While prostate cancer iis not always a death sentence, it is essential to reduce your risk of developing the disease by making healthy lifestyle and dietary choices. If you have a family history of prostate cancer, doctors recommend avoiding certain foods that have been linked to this disease. By making simple diet changes, and avoiding these foods, you can help keep your prostate healthy and lower your cancer risk: 1. Red meat Red meat contains high levels of saturated fat, which has been linked with an increased risk of prostate cancer. Processed meats such as bacon and sausage, and well done grilled red meats, like steak and hamburgers, are also high in saturated fat and should be avoided. Limit your intake to no more than three servings per week. 2. Alcohol Alcohol of all types increases the risk of prostate cancer by affecting the way the body metabolizes testosterone. This can lead to an increase in testosterone in the blood, linked with an increased risk of prostate cancer. Limit your intake to avoid developing prostate cancer, although avoiding it altogether is best. 3. High fat dairy Dairy products, especially whole milk, also contain high levels of saturated fat.