5 Foods That Can Lower Your Risk Of Cancer, Heart Disease, and More

 

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Heart disease, cancer, and diabetes are the three biggest killers in America. The good news? Several foods can lower your risk of all three of these diseases. While these five foods won’t automatically heal you from heart disease or cancer, they can help prevent you from developing them by strengthening your immune system, lowering inflammation, improving circulation, and preventing cardiovascular problems. Let’s take a look at the five foods that can lower your risk of cancer, heart disease, and more!

1) Asparagus

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These days, we’re all hearing about how good it is for us to eat more veggies. What many people don’t know is that asparagus might be one of those cancer-fighting foods we all hear so much about. In a study published in Phytotherapy Research, scientists found that asparagus contains a chemical called asparagusic acid—which has been shown to slow or even stop cancer cells from multiplying.

2) Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3s are well known for their anti-inflammatory benefits, but they’re also great at preventing a wide range of chronic health problems. For example, according to some studies, taking omega-3 supplements can help prevent cancer. But not all fish contain omega-3s (look for those that do), so make sure you’re getting enough from other sources such as flax seeds or walnuts.

3) Eggs

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Eggs are a powerhouse of nutrients. They’re packed with vitamins A, D, E, and K; choline; folate; iron; magnesium; phosphorus; potassium (more than bananas); selenium; riboflavin (vitamin B2); thiamin (vitamin B1); zinc. They’re also one of the few natural dietary sources of vitamin D. All that for about 75 calories per egg!

4) Rosemary

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Rosemary contains rosmarinic acid, which is known to improve cognitive function. This herb may also protect against cancer by preventing tumor growth. Rosemary is used in a variety of ways to reduce symptoms associated with arthritis, including reducing swelling as well as relieving pain, and improving circulation. Studies show that the consumption of rosemary may lower cholesterol levels significantly when it is consumed along with other herbs like turmeric or ginger.

5) Turmeric

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The cancer cell gradient in turmeric—curcumin—has been shown to prevent cancer cell formation. It also helps reduce inflammation throughout your body, which can help protect against heart disease.