Diet, Exercise and Cancer Iowa State FSHN饮食运动和癌症爱荷华州fshn.pptVIP

Diet and Cancer:Antioxidant Rich Foods What are antioxidants? An antioxidant can be a vitamin, mineral, or phytochemical Antioxidants neutralize damage to the body’s cells and are naturally present in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans and nuts. Why do our bodies need antioxidants? Antioxidants defend the body’s cells against molecules called “free radicals” To achieve stability, a free radical scavenges electrons from other molecules, which disrupts their stability in turn This process can start a chemical chain reaction that produces even more free radicals that inflict damage on healthy cells How do antioxidants work? Antioxidants can help offset damage caused by free radicals Limit free radical formation Destroy free radicals Stimulate antioxidant enzyme activity The Controversy It is not fully understood at this time if large doses of antioxidants: Protect cancer cells from the intended effects of chemo or radiation therapy Act to enhance the effects of chemo or radiation therapy Act as pro-oxidants causing more damage than protection of our healthy cells The Evidence So Far A number of studies point to an association between antioxidants and a reduced cancer risk: Vitamin C may help reduce the risk of stomach cancer Vitamin E may help lower the incidence of prostate and colon cancers Selenium may reduce risk for prostate and lung cancers General conclusion “People who eat a mostly plant-based diet that contains plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans and moderate amounts of nuts have lower cancer risk.” Rely on whole foods A diet rich in fruits and vegetables should provide all the antioxidants we need for good health and lower cancer risk Choose brightly colored vegetables and fruits, along with whole grains and beans Eating a large variety everyday may lower cancer risk by at least 20 percent “Foods that Fight Cancer” Beans Berries Cruciferous Vegetables Dark Green Leafy Vegetables Flaxseed Garlic Grapes and Grape Juice Green Tea